I recently bought a used HP ProDesk 400 G6 DM intending to connect it to my TV for streaming and some light gaming. It came with Windows 11 pre-installed, but I want to switch to Linux. Normally, I disable secure boot to make installation easier, but I found out the BIOS is password locked and I don't have the password. HP's solution requires using their BIOS Utility, which I can't access without the password. I noticed there are pads on the motherboard labeled PSWD, but they don't have a jumper. I tried using tweezers to short the pads, but it didn't work. Should I attempt to install Linux without disabling secure boot? If so, which Linux distributions are compatible with secure boot? Also, are there any other methods to reset the BIOS password?
4 Answers
Online HP BIOS password generators are an option, but you need to input incorrect passwords multiple times without knowing the risks of that approach. If you get a chance, use a CH341A to dump the BIOS file and utilize the RC unlocker method—it’s worked for others.
I've successfully installed Fedora and openSUSE with secure boot enabled without issues, but make sure you can get into the USB boot selection without needing the BIOS password. If you can boot from USB, it might work fine even if secure boot is active.
Just a heads up, if the installation requires key enrollment adjustments, you may hit a wall without BIOS access.
You might want to try removing the CMOS battery. It can sometimes clear the BIOS settings, including the password. Just unplug the PC and leave it for a while after taking out the battery.
That usually just clears the settings, not the password itself, but it’s worth a shot!
For the password reset, you could also try holding the jumper while the computer is on. In some cases, it has to be set correctly during the boot process for it to work. If that fails, consider using a soldered bridge on the jumper pads if you’re comfortable with it.
I’ve read that some models have disabled the reset feature which could explain the empty pads.
I was hesitant to enter wrong passwords multiple times too. But if you decide to buy the CH341A, it could be a good investment!