So - what is the BIOS password really protecting against - other than deterring employees from playing with company laptops? Note: If I own the laptop and don'

So - what is the BIOS password really protecting against - other than deterring employees from playing with company laptops? Note: If I own the laptop and don't have the password, I'm at the mercy of the vendor. And does the vendor want me to use my old hardware, or buy a new one?!