How to Change a CMOS Password

Unlike operating system and software passwords, computer systems that utilize CMOS passwords require you to enter the correct password the second you turn the computer on. While this provides extra security, many people do not know how to add or change this password because it requires accessing BIOS settings, which are not available in Windows. Learn how to access the BIOS setup page to change your CMOS password and make your computer as secure as possible.

• 1

  Click on the "Start" button in Windows and click "Shut Down." Click "Restart" to reboot your computer.

• 2

  Enter your current CMOS password and press the "Enter" key. Immediately press the BIOS hot key on your keyboard to enter the BIOS. This key varies from one computer to the next but it is generally "Del", "Esc", "F1" or "F2." If you don't know which key to press, look at the system boot screen during start-up. Most computer makers list the BIOS hot key on this screen.

• 3

  Navigate to the "Security" tab once in the BIOS. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate the BIOS menu. Move down to the "Password" field and press "Enter" to select it. Type in a new password and press "Enter." You may be prompted to enter your old CMOS password for security reasons.

• 4

  Press "Esc" to exit the BIOS page. A small pop-up window will appear, asking if you want to save your changes. Press "Y" to confirm the changes. Your computer will restart and the password change will take effect.