I'm having a really frustrating issue with my Toshiba Satellite laptop and could use some help. I've got two passwords: one for unlocking the computer and another for signing into my Linux Ubuntu Mate operating system. The problem started when I was in GRUB trying to change the second password. During the process, GRUB unexpectedly shut down before I finished typing the command. After that, the computer rebooted, and now I'm stuck. Whenever I try to enter my first password to access the computer, the screen freezes, preventing me from getting to my operating system. I can't access the BIOS, terminal, or GRUB at all, which means I can't reinstall the OS from a flash drive either. Is there anything I can do to fix this on my own, or am I out of luck and need a technician?
3 Answers
Try removing the CMOS battery, let it sit out for about 20 minutes, and then put it back. Sometimes, that can help reset things. If it boots, you can reinstall the OS and just use one password to simplify the process.
Have you tried removing the hard drive? It's usually pretty simple on laptops; just take out a few screws and see if the computer will power on without it. If you can, press F2 to try and enter the BIOS. This will help determine if the issue is with the hard drive or still a larger hardware problem.
Thanks! I’ll give that a shot.
What happens if you tap F2 as soon as you hit the power button? Sometimes you can force it into BIOS that way.
That didn’t work either. I’m really stuck.
That sounds like an old-school trick, but I’ve heard it works sometimes!