I need to uninstall W2k-lost passwords

[Dougpeplow]

I have been donated a Compaq laptop that was the property of a neighbour's husband. He died 8 months ago.
There are two password protection, one during boot-up (Bios P/w) which is known. The password to access Windows 2000 pro, however is unknown. I want to remove all data and install XP. Can anyone advise how to de-install/bypass w2k. (there is no floppy drive, but a CD-rom). Trying to access BIOS with F2 has no effect. F8 enables me to access other boot methods, but all require the unknown p/w?
T I A

 

[tfg13]

If you want to "remove all data and install XP", then why not boot from the XP CD? If you have the capability to get into BIOS, you should be able to boot off the CD, and bingo, you'll be able to "clean" install XP.

 

[electronicsfreak]

To access the bios usualy have to press delete. however some computers require control alt and escape. Then I would follow tfg13 step as in loading from the cdrom of windows xp, delete partition , create new one then format using ntfs and this will erase everything on the drive.

There is a point in wisdom and knowledge that when you reach it, you exceed what is considered possible - Jason Schoon

 

[Dougpeplow]

tfg13/electronic freak -thanks.
I used ctrl alt esc to acess the BIOS and disable the password protection and change the boot order to read the CD.
I was then able to install XP, but fter installation and re-boot, it came up with the 'logon dialog' with ID already completed as 'ADMINISTRATOR' and requesting a password. Needless to say, the BIOS password didn't work and I am stuck again - any further thoughts please?
T I A
Dougpeplow

 

[wolluf]

something very odd going on here - or you're leaving out details!

If you booted from XP install CD and used its tools to delete existing partition & create a new one for XP & then completed install, then there's no way you would get a password assigned to Administrator account unless:-

1. Its XP Pro and YOU supplied a password when prompted.
2. Your install Cd is not standard, has built in unattended stuff - including a pre-set administrator password.

Note: XP Home install doesn't even prompt for admin password, just sets it up blank.

 

[Dougpeplow]

wolluf, Thanks
- I installed the XP operating system on the same partition as W2k. From what you're saying, that was a mistake. I'll try again and this time create new partitions. (B T W, the XP CD is a legitimate one and not XP Pro)

 

[G0AOZ]

Make sure you DELETE the old W2K partition, not just create a new one for XP when you re-install. Otherwise you'll end up with an old useless first partition which could be wasting valuable disk space. And it might mean you end up with your XP installation on drive D: which might not be desirable...

ROGER - G0AOZ.