Kirjaudu sisään
Aloita kokeilujakso

I forgot my Windows password – how to reset it

Forgot your Windows password? This guide will show you step by step how to reset or recover your password and safely regain access to your computer. Follow the five steps below to solve the problem quickly.

Step 1: Use Windows password recovery tool

If you are using Windows 10 or 11, you can use the built-in password recovery tool. On the login screen, click “I forgot my password” or “Reset password”. Verify your identity via your Microsoft account (email, phone, or alternate email).

Step 2: Create a new password via Microsoft account

1. Go to Microsoft password reset
2. Select “I forgot my password”
3. Enter your Microsoft account email and follow the instructions
4. Create a new password and sign in to Windows with it

Tip: Use a strong password with uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.

Step 3: Reset password for a local account

If you are using a local Windows account, restart your computer, hold the Shift key and select “Restart”. Go to “Troubleshoot” → “Advanced options” → “Command Prompt” and follow instructions to reset the password. Note: admin rights or a recovery drive is required.

Step 4: Restore Windows using a system restore point

If other methods do not work, use Windows System Restore to revert your computer to a previous state, which may restore your old password. Go to Start → Search → “Restore point” → “Create a restore point” → “System Restore” and follow instructions.

Step 5: Create a password reset disk for the future

Go to Control Panel → User Accounts → Create a password reset disk, follow the instructions using a USB drive, and keep it in a safe place. This prevents future lockouts.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I know if I have a Microsoft account or a local account? Go to Start → Settings → Accounts. If an email is shown, it’s a Microsoft account.
  • Can I use third-party tools to reset my password? Yes, but only trusted software. Microsoft’s built-in tools are recommended first.
  • How fast can I regain access? Microsoft account reset usually takes under 10 minutes. Local account reset may take slightly longer depending on the method.