Mx11 BIOS Reset

[Mr. Charles]

So I'm trying to hold out and do as much as I can before paying Dell to reset my BIOS password on my Alienware Mx11.

Basically I wasn't in the right frame of mind (intoxicated) and kept changing it over and over because I didn't trust my roommates. I've googled a fair amount and have begun contemplating disassembling it to remove the CMOS battery for a while.

I know that this sounds extreme and slightly questionable but I can prove easily ownership. I'm just really anxious to get back gaming on the right machine. If anyone has any advice I would greatly appreciate it.

[CursedPanther]

Changing BIOS password as well to keep roommates away? That's some tense relationship you guys have there...:P

[Mr. Charles]

Well honestly it's all my doing. I lived in Reno, NV and fiddled around with a 'pharmaceutical' that can make one nihilistic.

To teach me a lesson my friends, after repeated attempts to lead me away, began inconspicuously adjusting my environment and network.

One afternoon, prior to my work shift, I feared remote access to my laptop and like 20x in a row set a BIOS password, adjusted wi-if settings through BIOS, back and forth thinking my security was compromised.

Using just 4 digits I began to randomize a password. The girl I was seeing at the time noticed and capitalized on my frantic behavior. She disturbed me often, breaking my focus to remind me I to get ready for work.

Lesson to be learned. Drugs are bad, mmkay. Now I'm trying to undo all the damage I've done and acquire a more healthy hobby. Reaching out to the gaming community is an attractive alternative, as well computer engineering in college.

The BIOS problem, however, is a formidable one and I cherish my Mx11. In time I will have to send it to Dell for repairs and with in mind the CMOS battery disconnect is worth a try. Im just curious as if anyone would think that effort may be in vain or if a more pragmatic alternative exists.

[Morbo]

Removing the CMOS battery should be fine, just remember to earth yourself first.
Don't forget that you'll need to change all the BIOS settings you actually want again, since all settings will be lost, not just the password.

But all in all, it shouldn't take longer than 10 minutes to get you up and running again, unless the battery is soldered directly into the motherboard or something.

[Mr. Charles]

What data do I risk losing. Obviously the hard drive is separate but could removing the CMOS alter something crucial?

[CursedPanther]

Originally posted by Mr. Charles:

What data do I risk losing. Obviously the hard drive is separate but could removing the CMOS alter something crucial?

No, as long as the laptop is already properly powered down.

[JamesJB]

I am skeptical,sorry :(

I don't trust this,sorry.

[Air]

Originally posted by Morbo 👽:

Don't forget that you'll need to change all the BIOS settings you actually want again, since all settings will be lost, not just the password.

UEFI boot information can also be lost.

[Mr. Charles]

Thank you everyone for your input. I'll be attempting this method shortly. Also James JB I respect your skepticism, as the nature of this problem is questionable and frankly idioic but I can assure you I am the original owner as the engraved plate on the back bears my name along with the records Dell has.

[JamesJB]

Originally posted by Mr. Charles:

Thank you everyone for your input. I'll be attempting this method shortly. Also James JB I respect your skepticism, as the nature of this problem is questionable and frankly idioic but I can assure you I am the original owner as the engraved plate on the back bears my name along with the records Dell has.

Sorry wasnt trying to be mean :(

[Mr. Charles]

You weren't mean and I'm not offended or mad, you're just following your gut. :)

[Mr. Charles]

Well after much stress and many youtube videos I have managed to dismantle all the way down until and disconnected the CMOS. Gonna give it an hour then reassemble her. Hopefully I wasn't too harsh.