5
Configuring password security and
resetting CMOS
This chapter describes how to configure password security and to reset CMOS, and includes these topics:
Preparing to configure passwords on page 71
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Resetting the password jumper on page 71
Clearing and resetting the CMOS on page 73
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Preparing to configure passwords
The Computer Setup (F10) Utility enables you to create setup and power-on passwords.
There are three possibilities for setting passwords:
Define a setup password only. You will need the password to enter Computer Setup (F10) Utility, but you
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will not need a password to start the workstation.
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Define a power-on password only. This password lets you start the workstation or enter the setup utility.
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Define both. In this case, the setup password lets you start the workstation and enter the setup utility.
The power-on password starts the workstation but does not let you enter the setup utility,
After you create both passwords, you can use the setup password in place of the power-on password as an
override to log in to the computer (a useful feature for a network administrator).
NOTE:
You can only clear the passwords with the password jumper. Clearing CMOS does not clear the
passwords.
CAUTION:
Before pressing the Clear CMOS button, back up your computer CMOS settings.
Pressing the Clear CMOS button resets CMOS values to factory defaults and erases customized information,
including asset numbers and special settings.
To back up the CMOS settings, run the Computer Setup (F10) Utility and select File>Replicated Setup>Save
to Removable Storage Device.
Resetting the password jumper
Use the following procedure to disable the power-on or setup password features and clear the power-on and
setup passwords.
WARNING!
disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet and allow the internal system components to cool before
touching them.
CAUTION:
When the computer is plugged in, the power supply has voltage applied to the system board,
even when the computer is turned off. Failure to disconnect the power cord can result in damage to the
system.
To reduce the risk of personal injury from electrical shock and hot surfaces, be sure to
Preparing to configure passwords
71