Why This Step Matters
Before using PC-DNA to reset a password, make sure Windows is fully shut down. A normal shutdown may use Fast Startup, which saves part of Windows to a hibernation file instead of closing it completely.
You only need to do this once, right before using PC-DNA.
Option 1 — Recommended: Shut Down While Holding Shift
This is the easiest method. It does not permanently change any Windows settings.
- Turn on the computer normally, without the PC-DNA USB drive connected.
- Wait until you reach the Windows sign-in screen. Do not sign in.
- Select the Power icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
- Press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard. While holding it, select Shut down.
- Keep holding Shift for about one second after selecting Shut down, then release it.
Once the computer is fully off, connect the PC-DNA USB drive and turn the computer on. You can now continue with the password reset.
Option 2 — One-Time Full Shutdown From Command Prompt
If the Shift method does not work and you can open Command Prompt as Administrator, save any open work and run:
shutdown /s /t 0This shuts the computer down immediately. It is a one-time action and does not permanently change the hibernation setting. After the computer turns off, connect the PC-DNA USB drive and turn it on.
Option 3 — Temporarily Disable Hibernation
Use this option only if support recommends it. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
powercfg /hibernate offThis turns off hibernation and Fast Startup until you turn them back on. Then shut down the computer, connect the PC-DNA USB drive, and continue with the password reset.
After you finish with PC-DNA, open Command Prompt as Administrator again and run:
powercfg /hibernate on