Surface Pro 4 Bios Password Reset High Quality Hot! Instant
Surface Pro 4 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. , there is no official way to reset a forgotten UEFI (BIOS) password. Microsoft does not provide recovery tools for this, and the password is saved directly to the hardware to prevent unauthorized access. If you are locked out of the UEFI settings on your Surface Pro 4
, your options depend on whether you still have access to Windows or need a hardware-level fix. 1. Contact Your IT Department
If the device was issued by a school or company, the UEFI password was likely set by an administrator. They are the only ones who can provide or clear the password for you. 2. Device Exchange (Out-of-Warranty)
For personal devices, the standard official solution is an out-of-warranty exchange. You can check your service options by signing into your Microsoft Account Devices page. 3. Hardware-Level Reset (Advanced)
Since there are no software backdoors, some technicians perform a manual reset by physically accessing the motherboard. This is a high-risk process that usually involves:
Desoldering the BIOS chip: Removing the chip from the motherboard.
Using a Programmer: Reflashing the chip with a new BIOS region to wipe the password. Resoldering: Putting the chip back onto the board. 4. Resetting Windows vs. UEFI
If you only need to reset your Windows login password (not the BIOS/UEFI), you can factory reset the device without knowing the current login credentials:
Force Recovery Mode: Hold Shift while selecting Restart from the power menu on the sign-in screen.
USB Recovery: Create a recovery drive on another PC via the Microsoft Surface Recovery Image page.
Boot from USB: Shut down, then hold the Volume Down button while pressing Power to boot from the drive and choose "Recover from a drive". Reset or recover your Surface - Microsoft Support surface pro 4 bios password reset high quality
Resetting a forgotten BIOS/UEFI password on a Microsoft Surface Pro 4
is a high-difficulty task because Microsoft does not provide a software-based "backdoor" or reset tool for these security credentials. Microsoft Learn
The following article outlines the only reliable methods for addressing a locked UEFI, ranging from official software resets for manageable issues to advanced hardware modification for total lockouts. Understanding Surface Pro 4 UEFI Security
The Surface Pro 4 uses Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) instead of traditional BIOS. This password is stored in a non-volatile chip on the motherboard. Unlike older laptops, removing the battery or CMOS battery clear the password on a Surface Pro 4. Super User
Method 1: The "Enterprise" Software Reset (For Managed Devices)
If your Surface was originally part of a corporate environment and managed via Surface Enterprise Management Mode (SEMM)
, it may be possible to clear the password using Microsoft's specialized tools. EduGeek.net Requirement : Access to the Microsoft Surface Deployment Accelerator Surface UEFI Configurator : IT administrators can create a "Reset Package" (an
file) that includes the device’s serial number. When run on the machine within Windows, it can strip the UEFI management and passwords. EduGeek.net
Method 2: Factory Reset via Recovery Mode (Bypassing Windows Password Only)
If your goal is to simply use the device and you are locked out of Surface Pro 4 Go to product viewer dialog for this item
(not the BIOS itself), you can perform a "Bare Metal Recovery." : This will
remove a UEFI/BIOS password if you are trying to change hardware settings. Surface pro 4 UEFI password - Microsoft Q&A
Resetting a Surface Pro 4 BIOS Password For the Microsoft Surface Pro 4, a BIOS (UEFI) password is a high-level security feature. Unlike standard desktop PCs, you cannot reset it by simply removing a battery or moving a jumper. Official Microsoft Stance
Microsoft officially states that it cannot retrieve or reset a forgotten UEFI password for the Surface Pro 4. There is no software tool or "master password" provided by the manufacturer for this purpose. If you lose this password and need to change BIOS-level settings (like boot order), Microsoft typically recommends a full hardware replacement. Technical Workarounds (Advanced Users Only)
Because there is no standard software reset, the only known "high quality" way to remove the password involves advanced hardware modification. This should only be attempted by professional technicians as it carries a high risk of permanently damaging the device. Reflashing the BIOS Chip:
The Process: This requires opening the device—which is difficult as the screen is glued down—and desoldering the BIOS chip (model 1724) from the motherboard.
Programming: The chip is placed on an external programmer, the firmware is reflashed to a "clean" version without a password, and the chip is soldered back onto the board. Known Risks:
Loss of Touch Functionality: Reflashing with an incorrect or non-original BIOS region can lead to the touchscreen failing. In these cases, the BIOS may show a touch firmware version of "000000".
Hardware Damage: Opening a Surface Pro 4 often results in a cracked screen or damage to delicate internal flex cables. Common Misconceptions to Avoid Surface pro 4 UEFI password - Microsoft Q&A
place. You cannot reset your UEFI password, and Microsoft cannot retrieve it. " 4 people found this answer helpful. Microsoft Learn Heat gun/hairdryer (to soften adhesive)
Method 2: The Hardware Short (High Risk / High Skill)
Warning: This method requires opening the Surface Pro 4 case. The screen is bonded to the chassis and is extremely fragile. Breaking the screen is a common occurrence for inexperienced technicians. This will likely void any remaining warranty.
This method involves shorting the SPI flash chip to temporarily corrupt the read process, forcing the UEFI to default to factory settings.
Tools Required:
- Heat gun/hairdryer (to soften adhesive).
- Suction cups and thin pry tools (guitar picks or iSesamo).
- Precision screwdriver set (Torx T4, T5).
- A conductive tool (tweezers or a paperclip).
- Anti-static wrist strap (recommended).
The Procedure:
-
Open the Device:
- Apply heat to the edges of the screen to soften the adhesive.
- Use suction cups to lift the screen glass slightly.
- Insert pry tools and carefully slice through the adhesive. Be extremely careful not to insert the tool too deep (more than 3mm) or you will sever the digitizer ribbon cables located near the top and bottom of the device.
- Once the screen is loose, remove the Torx screws securing the LCD to the chassis.
- Gently lift the screen assembly (connected by ribbons) to reveal the motherboard.
-
Locate the SPI Flash Chip:
- You need to locate the BIOS chip. On the Surface Pro 4 motherboard, it is usually a Winbond or Macronix 8-pin SOP chip. It is often labeled (e.g.,
Winbond 25X20). You may need to remove the heatsink shield to access it.
- You need to locate the BIOS chip. On the Surface Pro 4 motherboard, it is usually a Winbond or Macronix 8-pin SOP chip. It is often labeled (e.g.,
-
The Shorting Process:
- Reconnect the battery.
- Power on the device (press the power button).
- Immediately after pressing power, use your tweezers to short Pin 5 (Ground) and Pin 6 (Data/Clock) on the SPI chip. Note: Pin configurations vary; you must look up the specific datasheet for the chip on your board.
- This creates a short circuit that interferes with the chip reading the stored password.
- If successful, the Surface will either boot directly into Windows or show a UEFI error.
- If the UEFI screen appears, check if the password prompt is gone.
- Note: This is a "brute force" hardware hack. It does not always work, and repeated attempts can damage the motherboard.
-
Reassembly:
- If successful, reassemble the device. You will likely need new double-sided adhesive tape to seal the screen properly.
What I Will Not Provide
- Password generators or brute-force scripts.
- Modified BIOS files or “unlocker” tools.
- Instructions for circumventing ownership verification.
2. Hardware EEPROM Programmer Method – High Quality (9/10) ✅
Best method available.
- What you need:
- SPI flash programmer (e.g., CH341A, RT809H)
- SOIC8 test clip (1.8V or 3.3V compatible)
- Another PC with flash software (FlashROM, NeoProgrammer)
- Screwdrivers (Torx T3/T5)
- Process:
- Remove Surface Pro 4 back cover and shield.
- Locate BIOS chip (Winbond W25Q64 or similar near CPU).
- Clip programmer to chip (no soldering needed).
- Dump current BIOS, save backup.
- Use
UEFI Password Bypassscript or manually zero out password hash. - Flash modified BIOS back.
- Success rate: ~95% if done carefully.
- Skill level: Moderate (requires steady hands and software knowledge).
- Risk: Low if you keep a backup dump.
3) If you only need to reinstall Windows (and UEFI isn’t blocking boot)
- If the UEFI password isn’t preventing boot to USB, create a USB recovery drive from another Windows PC (Microsoft’s recovery image / Media Creation Tool).
- Boot Surface Pro 4 to the recovery USB (hold Volume Down while pressing Power for some Surface models) and do a clean install. This removes Windows data but does not remove a UEFI password that blocks UEFI access.