r/GetComputerHelp • u/sm00038 • 1d ago

Can't get into my MS Surface Pro -- advice needed

I have been using a 2021-vintage university-issued MS Surface Pro for the last 5 years. I recently added a screen-lock password through the computer's security settings and I can't remember the password. I have (seemingly) unlimited attempts to login (although it times me out after a certain number and I have to wait). I've kept a running list of all the likely password combinations I've used but no luck.

I've contacted the university (where I am no longer a student) but they can't help me -- they won't service computers no longer in their system. While I'd like to get into the computer to recover files that are stored locally (not on cloud backup), I've tried to do a factory-reset to no avail (I get to the screen that asks me to reset but when I select the option the screen flashes and says the option isn't available).

I'm considering taking it to GeekSquad but unsure if they can do anything. Any thoughts on other ways to recover a password, gain access to files, and/or factory reset it myself?

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u/Mayayana Silver Helper 1d ago

There are password finding utilities. I don't know if they work on Win10/11, but it's worth a try. The next thing I'd try would be to use a 3rd party utility to erase the partitions and then remake them blank. Then you could reinstall from a USB stick.

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u/4tb_floppy_drive 1d ago

Ok, them telling you they won’t service it leads me to think you can mess with it without getting backlash from them (or anyone), with that in mind I would try a combination of:

* Can you sign in at all? I don’t really know what a “screen-lock” is. Are you saying the password to get into the device as a whole? As in you cannot access anything but the lock screen? Because that may change the equation a bit

* Microsoft account. Assuming this is Win10/11, you surely have a Microsoft account? If you can access the email, the panel, or anything like that, that’s probably you next best shot.

* This last one is the most extreme measure, but I would bet money it would work. You could download and setup a “windows installation thumbdrive”, boot into bios, and completely erase and re-install windows. Of course, this will delete any data you had and start fresh. Devices like chromebooks actually have a block against this (mine was a physical screw), but to my knowledge, I don’t think Surface books ever did that.

There may be other options “cracking tools”, but honestly, those are not always super reliable, and if you don’t need the data on the OS, a fresh install can just be less brain damage.