Need to access old laptop cant get signed in,tried all self help

June Johnson 20 Reputation points
2026-10-07T07:59:03.22+00:00

Im trying to access my old laptop(17yrs) old...not used it for 10yr but it has photos i want to take off so i can factory reset to get rid of laptop.have gone through all self help microsoft but would like to talk to someone ,actually, talk over phone because i cant understand all tech language x thanks

Windows for home | Other | Recovery and backup
0 comments
Answer accepted by question author
GsN5034 - IA 78,700 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-10-07T09:12:23.3+00:00

Hello,

What exact error message do you see on the PC now? Since the laptop has not been used for about 10 years, it is possible that the Windows components may have become corrupted. As a result, the system might not accept the correct PIN, and resetting the PIN or password may not work either.

If the data on the laptop is important, consider taking it to a qualified local technician. They can remove the hard drive, and you can connect it to another PC using a USB adapter to help recover your files. After the data has been backed up, the drive can be reinstalled in the old laptop, and you can perform a factory reset or a clean installation of Windows.

This is likely the safest practical way to recover the data from the old hard drive before resetting or reinstalling Windows on your old PC.

Was this answer helpful?

1 person found this answer helpful.
0 comments

2 additional answers

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. June Johnson 20 Reputation points
    2026-10-07T08:02:27.59+00:00

    Does anyone have a ohone number for microsoft help please

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  2. June Johnson 20 Reputation points
    2026-10-07T08:00:09.0366667+00:00

    Please could i talk to someone over the phone

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.