On the ThinkCentre M720q, this header is typically labeled as , JP4 , or Clear CMOS .

) on the system board. In its default state, it usually covers pins Clear CMOS Mode

The Lenovo ThinkCentre M720q, particularly as a compact and popular model for business use and home labs, often has robust security features in its BIOS/UEFI firmware. Unlike a forgotten Windows login, the BIOS password is stored directly on a chip on the motherboard, making it more persistent and difficult to bypass. Lenovo employs several types of system passwords, including the Power-On Password (POP), which is required to boot the machine, and the Supervisor Password, which is required to enter and change BIOS settings.

Connect only the power adapter and a monitor to the unit. Do not touch the open motherboard while the unit is plugged in. Press the to turn the unit on.

: This method resets all BIOS settings to their factory defaults, not just the password. You may need to reconfigure date, time, boot order, and other customized settings.

Prompts for a password immediately after turning on the computer. If a Supervisor Password is also set, clearing the Supervisor Password will usually clear or allow you to change the Power-On Password.

This is the official method for the ThinkCentre Tiny series. The motherboard has a specific jumper labeled to reset the BIOS password.

Is your system asking for a password or a Supervisor password? Do you see an error code or a lock icon on the screen? Are you running the latest BIOS version from Lenovo?

If your organization managed this device via Intel vPro or Active Management Technology (AMT), an administrative lock might still apply. This lock cannot be cleared using the motherboard jumper and requires corporate deployment software to release. To help tailor these steps, let me know:

Marta didn’t type the hash. Instead, she held down the key, then pressed Enter three times slowly, then released F1. The notebook’s final line read: “Old ghosts don’t use keys. They use knocks.”

Restricts access to the BIOS Setup Utility. This is the password that can be cleared using the hardware jumper method detailed below. Important Safety Prerequisites

This comprehensive guide walks you through the official, hardware-based method to clear the power-on or supervisor password using the motherboard jumper. Safety First: Pre-Requisites and Tools

Inside, the only file on the desktop was a text document titled: “For Leo. The real password is ‘Paperclip286’. I just wanted to make sure you found someone clever enough to read the instructions.”

: Turn off the computer and disconnect all cables, including the power adapter. Open the Chassis

Complete Guide to the Lenovo ThinkCentre M720q BIOS Password Reset

Before attempting to reset the BIOS password, make sure you have the following:

If you're still having trouble resetting the BIOS password, you may want to consider contacting Lenovo support or a professional computer technician for assistance.