Dell Latitude 5420 - Bios Locked

[Artemis Kazuto]

Hello!

 

I have acquired an old enterprise laptop (Dell Latitude 5420) from ebay as a cheap option for basic web browsing and light tasks.

 

The issue I've run into, is that the operating system is password protected and the user isn't responsive.  I want to do a complete reset of everything system wise to ensure all the previous user's crap is off of it and install windows 11, but the Bios is locked.  The commonly searchable solutions have already been exhausted to no avail. 

 

I'm looking for options to either unlock the bios or get around it to reset.   I've contemplated calling dell directly, but since i bought second hand I don't have proof of purchase.  What are the thoughts on the following alternatives:

• installing an OS on a separate drive and installing it in its place, negating the need to reset the bios to begin with. 
• buying another parts laptop, and swapping over the motherboard where the bios isn't locked.

 

I really don't want this laptop to essentially be E-waste if i can avoid it.  Any other options I haven't considered? 

[Crunchy Dragon]

Easiest workaround is installing a new drive with its own OS, that still runs into a BIOS lock if you need to get in there for anything.

 

Best workaround is swapping the motherboard. Parts laptops can be iffy on if the motherboard works or not, but it shouldn't be difficult to track down just a motherboard for your laptop.

[BillBill]

12 hours ago, Artemis Kazuto said:

Hello!

 

I have acquired an old enterprise laptop (Dell Latitude 5420) from ebay as a cheap option for basic web browsing and light tasks.

 

The issue I've run into, is that the operating system is password protected and the user isn't responsive.  I want to do a complete reset of everything system wise to ensure all the previous user's crap is off of it and install windows 11, but the Bios is locked.  The commonly searchable solutions have already been exhausted to no avail. 

 

I'm looking for options to either unlock the bios or get around it to reset.   I've contemplated calling dell directly, but since i bought second hand I don't have proof of purchase.  What are the thoughts on the following alternatives:

• installing an OS on a separate drive and installing it in its place, negating the need to reset the bios to begin with. 
• buying another parts laptop, and swapping over the motherboard where the bios isn't locked.

 

I really don't want this laptop to essentially be E-waste if i can avoid it.  Any other options I haven't considered? 

This link is for Dell computers and how to reset the password. 

https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000131024/how-to-clear-the-bios-password