Windows 98 Laptop stuck - little lock shows

[lionpainter]

Hi All:wave:
When I tried to log in to my laptop, it got hung up and so I had to unplug the plug and battery and started again.
When it tried to come up from that there was this little lock graphic on the black screen...when I tapped on some keys, after a couple a hand with a stop sign graphic showed up.
I tried to by pass, hitting f12...f1...rebooting again...let it sit, reboot again. This little lock won't let it load. Now what can I do??? :dizzy: Thank you.
Lionpainter

[pip22]

Well, lionpainter, I've looked at a few laptop-dedicated forums without success for a mention of your problem. Seems like some kind of anti-theft or security firmware has kicked in, though why it should decide to lock you out now is a mystery.

There's no guarantee it'll work but all I can suggest is a full re-install from the recovery discs or the XP install disc, whichever you have. That won't remove the firmware lockout (if that's what it is) but if it's just a software problem then a re-install should fix it.

[Murray S.]

Howdy and welcome to CTH:

I take it you have a Toshiba or Compaq laptop??

Sounds like you initiated the hdd lockdown.. The ONLY way to clear it is to take the system to an authorized repair depot along with a bill of sale and have them reset the password for you !!

Murray