What is BIOS-PWD-LOCKOUT?
BIOS-PWD-LOCKOUT is a critical-severity firmware problem. Access to the computer is blocked due to an unknown UEFI administrator password. The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.
Common Causes
- Forgot password
- Intentional locking by network administrator (company NTB)
Step-by-Step Fix Guide
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1
Clear CMOS memory
We'd suggest Clear CMOS memory first — it's the fix most often responsible for solving BIOS-PWD-LOCKOUT outright.
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2
For laptops: Use the master password generator by the hash code (if it appears)
When the first step isn't enough, the later steps handle the edge cases tied to sw-bios instability.
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3
Contact manufacturer support
"Contact manufacturer support" handles an edge case some users report with BIOS-PWD-LOCKOUT.
Commands & Diagnostics
systeminfo
Frequently Asked Questions
Forgot password accounts for the majority of BIOS-PWD-LOCKOUT reports; intentional locking by network administrator (company NTB) come up less often but are documented.
"Clear CMOS memory" clears up most BIOS-PWD-LOCKOUT reports by itself. The remaining steps above cover what's left.
BIOS-PWD-LOCKOUT is rated critical severity in our database. It's worth acting on quickly rather than letting it recur.
You shouldn't need to. Work through the guide above first — a reinstall is only worth considering if none of those steps help.
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