Changed computer name, now cannot sign in

[bintyre]

Win XP Pro / HP OmniBook XE3

A friend was given this computer and asked me to clean it up. Have
worked on computers for some time so I have some knowledge of general
things. Unfortunately I have little knowledge about networks, etc.
This computer was on a network and was password protected. After
cleaning out files and software that my friend would not use, I made
the mistake of changing the computer name and removing the domain name.
After rebooting I can no longer sign in with the previous owners
username and password. The logon message is: "The system could not
log you on. Make sure your username and domain are correct, then type
your password again." As I said, it won't accept the username and
password.

Unfortunately, as is often the case nowadays, the notebook did not come
with the Windows XP Pro CD. I tried booting into safe mode but it is
also blocked there. Tried to boot into safe mode with command prompt
but that went into a loop. Also tried "last known good configuration"
but that didn't work either.

Is there any way to get back into this computer without reinstalling
Win XP??? As I said, we didn't get the CD with the used computer. I
feel terrible that I messed up her computer. Help!

 

[Steven L Umbach]

See the link below on a couple ways on how to proceed. I take it you learned
your lesson about removing a computer from the domain unless you know
credentials for a local administrator account.

Steve

http://www.petri.co.il/forgot_administrator_password.htm