You should only share your passwords with trusted users who are resetting laptops and tablets or applying device management and content filtering settings. You need the BIOS password so you can complete the reset process. To protect devices, this system has been password protected.

BIOS password – every laptop and tablet has a system that controls the device, called the BIOS.

This cannot be done from the ‘local user’ account on the device.

Local admin password – this allows you to sign into the admin user accounts for laptops and tablets where you can access options to reset the device.

Step 2 - Get local admin and BIOS passwords Why do I need this information?

This process can be done at the same time on multiple devices.

You will need to do this for each device individually.

Each reset will take approximately 40 to 60 minutes.

Back up anything you need from devices before resetting.

You should reset devices as soon as possible.This removes existing device management and content filtering software so you can apply your own. ‘Restricted’ Windows laptops and tablets need to be restored to factory settings. You’ll need to read all of this guide, through to ‘Apply your own settings’, to ensure that you complete the reset process.

It’s your responsibility to safeguard the young people in your care. Devices will not be maintained with future updates including virus scans and software upgrades. When licences expire, users will be able to freely access any online content. You’re still required to reset devices and apply your own safeguarding settings as soon as possible. It was due to expire on 30 September 2021, but to ensure devices remain safe for children and young people to use, we extended licences until 30 September 2022. ‘Restricted’ Windows devices provided though the Get help with technology programme came with security software. Why DfE-restricted Windows devices need to be reset You do not need to reset ‘Standard’ Windows devices, Chromebooks or iPads. If you received ‘DfE-restricted’ Windows devices in the 2019 to 20 or 2020 to 21 academic years, you’ll need to reset them as soon as possible.

Step 1 - Before you start Who needs to reset devices

How to reset hp laptop without password