Chosen Solution

hi. i recently purchased this laptop on craigslist and when i received it the finger scanner is on. so now i am unable to enter the laptop because it’s asking for the password and or finger to be swipped. the person whom i bought from just said is now M.I.A- missing in action! so if someone can help me or direct me that would be greatly appreciated. thanks! edie

as I was reaching for the hammer something told me “hey don’t do it” so I didn’t! All, i was able to remove all passwords. By 1st removing the actual finger reader, then I turned, turned off then turned on, I pressed f11. System Recovery, I selected Microsoft recovery files. I clicked on that and recovered original files and it ran for about 20 minutes. When it was completed, it restarted and long and behold I was in! Went to Control Panel/Users/removed all passwords and users. And happy to report my HP is running smoother than smooth without any passwords. I want to thank all for ur help and suggestions! Trust with out I would not be able to have completed this minor headache! Now that this is fixed, what do i do next?

My advice is to just reset the computer to its original factory setting. When you first start your computer start hitting F11. This should launch the HP restore utility. Choose the option that erases all user data and programs and problem solved.

I had a VAIO with this, the easiest way is see if it is connected sepratley Also, I hated it so much, uninstalling the HP software and driver for it may do the trick like on my VAIO but it had Linux so it was no longer a pest after XP slowed down like crazy Uninstall all of HP’s rubbish and you will find it and speed the laptop up, except Support Assistant

If “disconnect the finger scanner” is something you would like to know how to do, read on…

  • Follow the HP instructions on how to remove the DVD drive: Mainly disconnect the AC, turn the laptop around. Remove the battery, remove the wireless/memory cover. You will see a small shiny prong sticking out, unscrew it and then push it out (towards the DVD drive).
  • After the DVD drive is out look at the opening (with a flashlight if needed) and you will see the fingerprint reader and connector. With a correct tool (in my case a small, long and thin, bent nose plier) disconnect the thin cable.
  • Now you can either tape the end of it and/or push it to the back or tape it close to the connector.