Computer Hope

Microsoft => Microsoft Windows => Windows XP => Topic started by: babyggurl35 on December 01, 2008, 04:07:43 PM

Title: I cant retrieve the previous Administrator's Password
Post by: babyggurl35 on December 01, 2008, 04:07:43 PM

I purchased a Dell pc system (with monitor, keyboard, mouse and speakers) from a law firm the was going out of business, and placed it in storage for a few months. I recently tried to use it for the first time, and discovered that it is still set up with the company's administrative rights and limitations. I managed to get past the username and password part, but once logged onto the home screen, I cannot go to Enternet Explorer, make any changes to the system or anything else because it tells me that I need administrative rights / password, and that is impossible to retieve! Someone told me to try and re-install the Windows XP, but when I tried to un-install Windows, it said Windows was successfully un-installed, but it was NOT. Im so frustrated!! I cant go to the company for help because they have since closed the firm for good.  Also when I restart the pc, it BEGINS loading from the WINDOWS page (with the blue dots going across the bottom) so I cant access the option to start Windows in SAFE MODE.  Please help me, I dont know what to do.

P.S. I also have the Windows XP SP2 reboot cd, but it didnt seem to do anything. 

Title: Re: I cant retrieve the previous Administrator's Password
Post by: Broni on December 01, 2008, 06:36:52 PM

Quote

but when I tried to un-install Windows

You don't uninstall Windows.
You need Windows XP CD to perform clean Windows install: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

Title: Re: I cant retrieve the previous Administrator's Password
Post by: babyggurl35 on December 04, 2008, 10:24:36 AM

Thanks Broni, someone gave me the wrong info. I will try the clean windows install...wish me luck!  ;)

Title: Re: I cant retrieve the previous Administrator's Password
Post by: Broni on December 04, 2008, 06:27:57 PM

Good luck :)
Let us know.