How to Unlock Laptop Without a Password: A Complete Guide

Unlocking a laptop without a password is crucial when you find yourself locked out, whether due to a forgotten password or an unexpected glitch. Accessing your laptop quickly is essential, especially when you need important files or are in the middle of a project. Fortunately, there are several methods available that can help you regain access without having to reset your device or lose any data.

Key Takeaways

  • Password Reset Disk: Always create a password reset disk as a preventive measure; it’s the easiest and safest way to regain access if you’re locked out.
  • Safe Mode & Command Prompt: Safe Mode combined with Command Prompt offers powerful tools to reset your password without needing additional software.
  • Built-in Administrator Account: Enabling the hidden Administrator account can be a quick solution for resetting passwords, especially when other methods fail.
  • Factory Reset as Last Resort: A factory reset guarantees access to your laptop but comes at the cost of losing all your data—use it only when other methods don’t work.
  • Preparation is Key: Regular backups, creating installation media, and using password management tools can help you avoid the stress of being locked out in the future.

Can I Unlock Laptop Without a Password?

Yes, it is possible to unlock a laptop without a password. Boot your computer and immediately press the F8 key repeatedly until your computer displays the boot menu. Use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode and press Enter. On the home screen, click on Administrator. If you don’t see a home screen, type “Administrator” and leave the password field blank.

Use Password Reset Disk

A Password Reset Disk is a simple yet powerful tool that allows you to regain access to your laptop if you forget your password. This disk is like a safety net; you create it while you still have access to your account, and it can save you from a lot of headaches in the future.

What is a Password Reset Disk?

A Password Reset Disk is a USB drive or a CD/DVD that contains a file specifically created to reset your Windows account password. Once you have this disk, you can use it to reset your password without needing to know the old one. It’s a preventive measure, ensuring that you’re never permanently locked out of your laptop.

Steps to Create a Password Reset Disk Before Being Locked Out

Creating a Password Reset Disk is a straightforward process that you should do as soon as you set up your laptop:

  1. Insert a USB Drive or CD/DVD: Choose a removable disk that you can dedicate to this purpose.
  2. Open Control Panel: Navigate to the Control Panel from the Start menu.
  3. Go to User Accounts: Select the “User Accounts” option.
  4. Click on ‘Create a Password Reset Disk’: This option is located on the left side of the User Accounts window.
  5. Follow the Wizard: The Forgotten Password Wizard will guide you through the process. Select the drive you inserted, and then click “Next.”
  6. Enter Your Current Password: This step confirms your identity before creating the disk.
  7. Save the Disk: Once the process is complete, label the disk clearly and store it in a safe place.

Steps to Use the Password Reset Disk If Already Locked Out

If you ever find yourself locked out of your laptop, here’s how you can use the Password Reset Disk to regain access:

  1. Insert the Password Reset Disk: Use the USB or CD/DVD you created earlier.
  2. On the Login Screen, Select ‘Reset Password’: This option will appear after you enter the wrong password.
  3. Launch the Password Reset Wizard: The wizard will start automatically. Click “Next” to proceed.
  4. Select the Password Reset Disk: Choose the disk you inserted from the drop-down menu and click “Next.”
  5. Set a New Password: Enter a new password for your account and confirm it.
  6. Login with Your New Password: Remove the disk and use your new password to log in.

By having a Password Reset Disk, you can avoid the stress and hassle of being locked out of your laptop. It’s a quick, secure, and effective solution that ensures you’re always in control of your access.

Access Through Safe Mode

Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows that allows you to troubleshoot and fix various issues by booting up with a minimal set of drivers and services. One of the key benefits of Safe Mode is that it bypasses some of the usual security features, giving you the ability to reset or remove your password if you’re locked out of your laptop.

Introduction to Safe Mode and How It Bypasses Security Features

When your laptop boots into Safe Mode, it loads only the essential files and drivers needed for Windows to operate. This stripped-down version of Windows disables certain third-party software and security measures that might normally prevent you from accessing your account. As a result, you can often gain administrative access to the system, allowing you to change or remove your password without needing the original one.

Steps to Boot Your Laptop into Safe Mode

To access Safe Mode and reset your password, follow these steps:

  1. Restart Your Laptop: Begin by restarting your laptop. If you’re locked out, hold down the power button until the laptop shuts down, then power it back on.
  2. Interrupt the Boot Process: If you don’t see the option to boot into Safe Mode, interrupt the boot process three times. Do this by powering off the laptop as soon as you see the Windows logo, then turning it back on. After three interruptions, Windows will automatically start in the Recovery Environment.
  3. Access Advanced Startup Options: In the Recovery Environment, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  4. Select Safe Mode: Click Restart, and when your laptop restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Choose Safe Mode with Command Prompt by pressing the corresponding number key (usually 4 or F4).

How to Change or Remove the Password in Safe Mode

Once you’re in Safe Mode, you can use the built-in Administrator account or Command Prompt to reset your password:

  1. Open Command Prompt: If you chose Safe Mode with Command Prompt, the Command Prompt window will appear automatically. If not, search for “cmd” in the Start menu and open it as an administrator.
  2. Enable the Built-in Administrator Account: Type the following command and press Enter: net user administrator /active:yes This command activates the hidden Administrator account, which can be used to reset the password.
  3. Change the Password: Now, use the following command to reset your password: net user [Your_Username] [New_Password] Replace [Your_Username] with your account name and [New_Password] with the new password you want to set. Press Enter.
  4. Remove the Password (Optional): If you prefer to remove the password entirely, use the following command: net user [Your_Username] “” This command sets the password to blank.
  5. Log Back In: Restart your laptop normally, and you should be able to log in with the new password or without a password if you removed it.

Using Safe Mode to reset or remove your password is a powerful method, especially when other options are unavailable. It’s a straightforward way to regain access to your laptop without needing additional tools or software.

Use Built-in Administrator Account

Windows includes a hidden Administrator account that has elevated privileges, allowing it to bypass many of the restrictions that apply to standard user accounts. This account is designed for troubleshooting purposes and is disabled by default. However, if you’re locked out of your regular account, enabling the Administrator account can give you the access you need to reset your password.

Explanation of the Hidden Administrator Account in Windows

The hidden Administrator account in Windows is a special account with full system access. Unlike regular accounts, this Administrator account isn’t subject to User Account Control (UAC) prompts, meaning it can perform actions that might be restricted under a standard user account. Because of its powerful capabilities, it’s typically hidden and disabled to prevent unauthorized access or accidental system changes. However, in cases where you’ve lost access to your account, enabling this Administrator account can be a lifesaver.

Steps to Enable the Administrator Account Through Safe Mode or Command Prompt

There are two primary ways to enable the hidden Administrator account: through Safe Mode or directly via Command Prompt.

Method 1: Enabling the Administrator Account in Safe Mode

  1. Boot into Safe Mode: Restart your laptop and press the key (often F8, F4, or Shift + F8) to enter Safe Mode. If your laptop doesn’t offer this option directly, interrupt the boot process three times to trigger Windows Recovery, then navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings and choose Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
  2. Access Command Prompt: Once in Safe Mode, Command Prompt should automatically open if you selected “Safe Mode with Command Prompt.” If not, search for “cmd” in the Start menu and open it as an administrator.
  3. Enable the Administrator Account: Type the following command and press Enter: net user administrator /active:yes

This command activates the hidden Administrator account, making it accessible from the login screen.

Method 2: Enabling the Administrator Account Directly via Command Prompt

  1. Access Command Prompt: If you can still access your laptop via another account or a recovery disk, open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
  2. Run the Command: Enter the same command: net user administrator /active:yes

This will enable the Administrator account even outside of Safe Mode.

How to Reset the Password Using the Administrator Account

Once the Administrator account is enabled, you can use it to reset the password for any user account on the laptop:

  1. Log in to the Administrator Account: Restart your laptop and choose the Administrator account from the login screen. No password is required unless you set one previously.
  2. Open User Accounts: Once logged in, go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Manage another account.
  3. Select the Locked Account: Choose the account you’re locked out of.
  4. Reset the Password: Click Change the password and enter a new password. Confirm it, and then click “Change password.”
  5. Log Back In: Log out of the Administrator account and log in to your regular account using the new password.

The hidden Administrator account is a powerful tool that can help you regain access to your laptop without needing to resort to more drastic measures like a factory reset. By enabling this account and using it wisely, you can reset your password and get back to work quickly.

Unlock via Command Prompt

Command Prompt is a powerful command-line tool in Windows that allows users to perform a wide range of system modifications, including unlocking a laptop when you’ve forgotten the password. With the right commands, you can reset or remove passwords, enable hidden accounts, and gain access to various system settings that are otherwise inaccessible through the regular user interface.

Introduction to Command Prompt as a Powerful Tool for System Modifications

Command Prompt operates with administrative privileges when run as an administrator, giving it the ability to make significant changes to the system. This tool is particularly useful for troubleshooting and recovering access to a locked laptop, as it allows you to bypass the usual graphical interface and directly interact with the system at a deeper level. However, because of its power, it’s important to use Command Prompt carefully to avoid unintended consequences.

Detailed Steps to Unlock the Laptop Using Command Prompt Commands

To unlock your laptop using Command Prompt, follow these steps:

  1. Access Command Prompt:
    • If you’re locked out, you can access Command Prompt by booting into Safe Mode with Command Prompt. Restart your laptop and repeatedly press the F8, Shift + F8, or F4 key (depending on your system) to enter Safe Mode. Select Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
    • Alternatively, if you have access to another account, search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click on Command Prompt, and select “Run as administrator.”
  2. View All User Accounts:
    • Type the following command and press Enter to see all user accounts on the laptop: net user
    • This will display a list of all accounts on the system, including any hidden accounts.
  3. Reset the Password:
    • To reset the password for the locked account, type the following command: net user [Your_Username] [New_Password]
    • Replace [Your_Username] with the name of the locked account, and [New_Password] with the new password you want to set. Press Enter.
    • Example: net user JohnDoe mynewpassword123
  4. Remove the Password (Optional):
    • If you prefer to remove the password entirely, enter the following command: net user [Your_Username] “”
    • This command will remove the password, allowing you to log in without one.
  5. Enable the Built-in Administrator Account (Optional):
    • If you need additional access, you can enable the hidden Administrator account by typing: net user administrator /active:yes
    • This command will activate the Administrator account, which you can then use to log in and make further changes.
  6. Log In with the New Password:
    • Close Command Prompt and restart your laptop. Log in to the account using the new password or without a password if you chose to remove it.

Warnings and Precautions When Using Command Prompt

  • Administrative Access: Ensure you are running Command Prompt with administrative privileges. Without these, many commands won’t work, and you may not be able to reset passwords.
  • Careful with Commands: Command Prompt is a powerful tool, and incorrect commands can lead to unintended changes, including data loss or system instability. Always double-check commands before executing them.
  • Use Only What You Understand: If you’re not familiar with Command Prompt, avoid experimenting with commands you don’t fully understand. Stick to the instructions provided and seek help if necessary.
  • Data Backup: If possible, always back up important data before making significant changes to your system using Command Prompt, as some actions cannot be undone.

By using Command Prompt effectively, you can quickly regain access to your locked laptop without needing additional software or tools. However, it’s crucial to follow the steps carefully and be aware of the potential risks involved in using this powerful system tool.

Bypass Password Using BIOS

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a crucial component of your laptop’s hardware, serving as the intermediary between your operating system and the hardware components. It is responsible for initializing and testing your hardware during the boot process, as well as providing a runtime environment for the operating system to work with. While BIOS primarily deals with hardware settings, it can also play a role in bypassing a forgotten password by resetting system configurations or clearing BIOS-level passwords that may be preventing access to the operating system.

Introduction to BIOS and Its Role in System Security

BIOS is embedded in your laptop’s motherboard and controls the basic functions of your computer. It ensures that the operating system loads properly by managing data flow between the computer’s operating system and attached devices such as the hard drive, video adapter, keyboard, and mouse. BIOS also plays a key role in system security. It can be configured to require a password before allowing the system to boot, adding an extra layer of protection. However, if you forget this password, it can lock you out of your system entirely.

Steps to Access BIOS and Reset the Laptop Password

To bypass or reset a BIOS password, you can follow these steps. Keep in mind that the exact process may vary depending on your laptop’s manufacturer.

  1. Power Off the Laptop: Ensure your laptop is completely powered down.
  2. Power On and Access BIOS: Turn on your laptop and immediately begin pressing the BIOS access key. Common keys include F2, F10, DEL, or ESC, but this can vary by manufacturer. If you’re unsure, refer to your laptop’s manual or try a quick online search for the specific key.
  3. Navigate to the Security Tab:
    • Once in the BIOS menu, use the arrow keys to navigate to the Security or Password section.
    • Here, you may find options related to BIOS passwords (e.g., Supervisor Password, User Password).
  4. Reset the Password:
    • If you have access to the BIOS, you may be able to reset or disable the password by selecting the appropriate option and either entering a new password or leaving the field blank to remove it.
    • If you’re locked out of BIOS due to a forgotten password, you may need to reset the BIOS settings entirely. This can often be done by finding the option to “Load Default Settings” or “Clear BIOS Settings.”
  5. Save and Exit:
    • After making your changes, navigate to the Exit tab and select Save Changes and Exit. Your laptop will restart, and the BIOS password should be reset or removed.
  6. Access Your Operating System: With the BIOS password reset, you should now be able to boot into your operating system without any password prompts.

Considerations and Risks When Modifying BIOS Settings

  • Potential Data Loss: Resetting BIOS settings can sometimes lead to unexpected consequences, such as changes in hardware configuration that could result in data loss or system instability. Always back up important data before making BIOS changes.
  • Risk of Permanent Lockout: If you attempt to modify BIOS settings without fully understanding the implications, you risk permanently locking yourself out of your system. This is particularly true if you change hardware-level security settings.
  • Manufacturer-Specific Procedures: Different manufacturers may have different methods for accessing and modifying BIOS settings. Ensure that you are following the correct procedure for your specific laptop model.
  • Physical Intervention May Be Required: In some cases, particularly with older laptops, resetting BIOS may require physically opening the laptop to remove the CMOS battery or using a jumper on the motherboard to clear the BIOS settings. This should only be done if you’re confident in your ability to safely work with computer hardware.
  • Warranty Void: Modifying BIOS settings may void your laptop’s warranty, especially if you have to open the device or use third-party methods to reset the BIOS.

Bypassing or resetting a password through BIOS is a powerful but potentially risky approach. It’s important to proceed with caution, fully understanding the steps and potential consequences before making any changes.

Reset the Laptop (Factory Reset)

A factory reset is a powerful method to restore your laptop to its original state by erasing all data, settings, and installed applications, returning the system to the condition it was in when you first purchased it. While this method effectively removes a forgotten password, it also deletes everything on the laptop, so it should be used as a last resort when other methods to unlock your laptop have failed.

Explanation of Factory Resetting and Its Implications

Factory resetting your laptop is essentially a fresh start for your device. It wipes the entire hard drive, removing all user data, installed software, and personalized settings. This can be a lifesaver if you’re locked out due to a forgotten password, but it comes with significant implications:

  • Data Loss: All personal files, documents, and applications will be permanently erased.
  • Software Reinstallation: You will need to reinstall all software programs that were added after the purchase of the laptop.
  • Configuration Time: After a factory reset, you’ll need to go through the initial setup process and reconfigure your settings, which can be time-consuming.
  • Recovery of Pre-Installed Software: The reset will restore the laptop’s operating system and any software that was pre-installed by the manufacturer.

Given these implications, it’s crucial to ensure you’ve exhausted other password recovery options before opting for a factory reset.

Steps to Perform a Factory Reset on Different Laptop Brands (Windows/Mac)

For Windows Laptops
  1. Backup Your Data: If possible, back up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage.
  2. Access the Settings Menu:
    • Press Windows + I to open the Settings menu.
    • Go to Update & Security > Recovery.
  3. Start the Reset Process:
    • Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
    • Choose Remove everything to completely erase all data.
    • You may also be asked to select an option for Just remove my files or Remove files and clean the drive. The latter option is more secure but takes longer.
  4. Confirm and Reset:
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the reset.
    • The laptop will restart and begin the reset process, which may take some time.
  5. Complete the Setup:
    • Once the reset is complete, the laptop will boot up as if it were new, and you’ll need to go through the initial setup process.
For Mac Laptops
  1. Backup Your Data with Time Machine: If possible, create a Time Machine backup to an external drive.
  2. Restart in Recovery Mode:
    • Shut down your Mac.
    • Turn it on and immediately press and hold Command + R until the Apple logo appears.
  3. Erase the Hard Drive:
    • In macOS Utilities, select Disk Utility and click Continue.
    • Select your startup disk (usually named “Macintosh HD”) and click Erase.
    • Choose Mac OS Extended (Journaled) for format and GUID Partition Map for the scheme, then click Erase.
  4. Reinstall macOS:
    • After erasing the disk, close Disk Utility.
    • In the macOS Utilities window, select Reinstall macOS and click Continue.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall the operating system.
  5. Complete the Setup:
    • After the installation is complete, your Mac will restart and prompt you to set up your system as if it were new.

Backup and Recovery Tips to Avoid Data Loss

  • Regular Backups: Regularly back up your data using an external hard drive or cloud storage. For Windows users, the built-in Backup and Restore feature is useful, while Mac users can utilize Time Machine for automatic backups.
  • Create a System Image: Before performing a factory reset, consider creating a system image on an external drive. This allows you to restore your entire system, including settings and installed applications, after the reset.
  • Use Cloud Services: Store critical documents, photos, and files in cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud. This ensures that even if your local data is erased, you can recover it from the cloud.
  • Check for Pre-Installed Backup Tools: Some laptop manufacturers include proprietary backup tools (e.g., Dell Backup and Recovery, HP Recovery Manager) that can help you create a full backup before performing a factory reset.
  • Data Recovery Software: If you accidentally perform a reset without backing up, data recovery software like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard might help retrieve some lost files, though success is not guaranteed.

By performing a factory reset, you can effectively remove any forgotten passwords and start fresh with your laptop. However, given the significant data loss involved, it’s essential to back up your data and consider all other options before resorting to this method.

Using an Installation Disk or USB

Using an installation disk or USB is an effective way to reset a laptop, especially when you’re locked out due to a forgotten password. This method allows you to access system recovery options, reinstall the operating system, or perform a system repair. By booting from installation media, you can bypass the locked system and regain control of your laptop.

Overview of Using Installation Media to Reset the Laptop

Installation media, such as a bootable USB drive or CD/DVD, contains the necessary files to install or repair the operating system. When you boot your laptop from this media, you can access various recovery tools, including options to reset the password, repair the system, or reinstall the operating system entirely. This method is particularly useful if other password recovery techniques have failed or if your laptop is not responding correctly.

Guide on Creating a Bootable USB or CD with Installation Media

For Windows Laptops
  1. Download the Windows Installation Files:
    • Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Windows Media Creation Tool.
    • Run the tool and select Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.
  2. Prepare the USB Drive or CD/DVD:
    • Insert a USB drive (at least 8 GB) or a blank CD/DVD into your computer.
    • Choose USB flash drive or ISO file (for CD/DVD) in the tool and follow the prompts to download the installation files.
  3. Create the Bootable Media:
    • If using a USB drive, the Media Creation Tool will automatically format the drive and copy the necessary files.
    • If using a CD/DVD, you’ll need to burn the ISO file to the disk using a tool like Rufus or Windows Disc Image Burner.
For Mac Laptops
  1. Download macOS Installer:
    • Open the App Store and search for the latest version of macOS.
    • Download the installer, but don’t run it; instead, let it download to your Applications folder.
  2. Prepare the USB Drive:
    • Insert a USB drive (at least 16 GB) into your Mac.
    • Open Terminal from Applications > Utilities.
  3. Create the Bootable USB:
    • In Terminal, use the following command (replace “MyVolume” with your USB drive’s name): sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ [version].app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia –volume /Volumes/MyVolume
    • Press Enter and follow the on-screen instructions to create the bootable USB drive.

Steps to Unlock the Laptop Through the Installation Disk

For Windows Laptops

  1. Insert the Installation Disk or USB: Connect the bootable USB drive or insert the installation CD/DVD into your locked laptop.
  2. Access the Boot Menu:
    • Restart your laptop and press the appropriate key to enter the Boot Menu (usually F12, ESC, or F2).
    • Select the USB drive or CD/DVD from the list of boot options and press Enter.
  3. Start Windows Setup:
    • The laptop will boot from the installation media, and the Windows setup screen will appear. Choose your language preferences and click Next.
  4. Access Repair Options:
    • On the setup screen, click Repair your computer (usually located at the bottom left).
    • Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
  5. Reset the Password: net user [Your_Username] [New_Password]
    • Alternatively, select System Restore or Startup Repair if you prefer to reset your system settings.
  6. Reboot and Log In: After resetting the password or repairing the system, remove the installation media and restart your laptop. Log in with the new password.

For Mac Laptops

  1. Insert the Bootable USB Drive: Connect the bootable USB drive to your locked Mac.
  2. Boot from the USB Drive:
    • Restart your Mac and immediately hold down the Option key until the Startup Manager appears.
    • Select the USB drive from the list of bootable volumes and press Enter.
  3. Access macOS Utilities:
    • The macOS Utilities window will appear. Here, you can choose to reinstall macOS, use Disk Utility to erase and reset your drive, or restore from a Time Machine backup.
  4. Reset the Password:
    • If your goal is to reset the password, select Utilities > Terminal from the menu bar.
    • In Terminal, type resetpassword and press Enter. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your user password.
  5. Reinstall macOS (if needed):
    • If you need to start fresh, select Reinstall macOS and follow the prompts to reinstall the operating system.
  6. Complete the Setup: Once the process is complete, remove the USB drive and restart your Mac. Log in with your new password or proceed with the setup process.

Using installation media is a reliable way to regain access to a locked laptop, whether you need to reset your password or perform a complete system reinstall. However, it’s important to prepare this media in advance, as it can save you a lot of time and trouble if you ever find yourself locked out of your device.

Conclusion

Unlocking your laptop without a password is a critical skill, especially when you’re locked out and need quick access to your system. In this guide, we’ve explored several effective methods, each tailored to different situations and levels of technical expertise.

Summary Table of Methods

MethodDescriptionEase of UseRisk LevelEffectiveness
Password Reset DiskA pre-prepared tool to reset the password easily.EasyLowHigh
Safe ModeBoot into Safe Mode to bypass security features and reset the password.ModerateLowHigh
Built-in Administrator AccountUtilize the hidden Administrator account to reset the password.ModerateLowHigh
Command PromptUse command-line tools to reset the password directly.ModerateMediumHigh
BIOS BypassReset BIOS settings to remove system-level passwords.DifficultHighMedium to High
Factory ResetWipe all data and restore the laptop to its original state.DifficultHighHigh (Data Loss)
Installation Disk or USBUse installation media to reset the laptop or reinstall the OS.ModerateMediumHigh

This table provides a quick reference to the various methods discussed, helping you choose the best approach based on your specific situation and technical comfort level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I open my laptop if I forgot the password?

Boot your computer and immediately press the F8 key repeatedly until the boot menu appears. Use the arrow keys to choose Safe Mode and press Enter. On the login screen, click on “Administrator.” If there is no login screen, type “Administrator” and leave the password field blank.

Can a laptop be unlocked without a password?

Yes, a laptop can be unlocked without a password using several methods. You can use a password reset disk if you’ve created one, or utilize third-party software tools like iSumsoft Windows Password Refixer to recover or bypass the password.

What should I do if my laptop has no password?

If your laptop has no password, simply restart the computer. On the login screen, click the “Reset Password” link to start the “Forgot Password Wizard.” Follow the prompts to reset your password.

How do I remove a password from my laptop without knowing the password?

For Windows 10 users with a local account, go to the Control Panel, select User Accounts and Family Safety, then click on User Accounts. From there, you can remove the password under the ‘Make changes to your account’ section.

How can I skip the password entry on my laptop?

To bypass the password entry on your laptop, type netplwiz in the Start menu search bar and select the top result. Uncheck the box next to “Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer” and click Apply. Enter your username and password when prompted, then click OK to save the changes.