Originally Posted by
lamphs
Good morning. I thought I'd seen a thread on this topic, but I can't find it. Probably like many of you, I have a bunch (like a dozen) of previously used desktops and notebooks. I am downsizing and want to dispose of these items. The good news is that each turns on and will get to a Windows screen.
The bad news is that passwords are long forgotten; there are files, especially, pics that I'd like to save. And then I want to wipe the data clean and drop-off at the local recycling center.
I am tech literate, but not tech savvy anymore. I can follow instructions and not make a mess of things. Any recommendations for tools to a) bypass the Windows password so that I can get to the "C:" drive so that I can offload any wanted files (even at the system prompt); and b) wipe the data?
Thanks FTers!
As [MENTION=15711]gfunkdave[/MENTION] mentioned, assuming you aren't using bitlocker, you can extract the HD and use a dock or kit to copy your files off. One other possibility is to use a password recovery app (basically you create a bootable USB key and use the software to extract the password). This would likely be easier since you're not ripping into the computer if you don't feel comfortable... I've used
this (link embedded) a few times with success. There are others out there that you could use. As for how to reset the computers after you have extracted what you want for it, there's a couple of options depending on make and model and how comfortable you feel doing it... Personally my process (if repurposing the computer to someone else)...
1) Extract the serial number (assuming Windows 7,8 or 10);
2) Assuming all the sensitive data has been deleted, wipe the free space (there are apps there that have been mentioned,);
3) Upgrade to Windows 10 via the Window Media Creation Tool;
4) Use the Windows Media Creation tool to create a bootable installer (USB or DVD) and use that to install a clean copy of Windows 10 (whoever gets the computer will thank you for not putting the manufacturer's bloatware on there);
Or if you feel lazy, just run the "Reset this PC" command from the start menu... Personally I prefer the cleaner method but it's personal preference.