When your computer is locked and you cannot log in, "changing" your password typically means resetting it, as you don't have access to the operating system's settings to simply modify it. This guide focuses on methods for Windows operating systems, often involving a "Forgot Password" or "Reset Password" utility directly from the login screen.
Resetting Your Password When Locked Out (Windows)
If you're locked out of your Windows computer, the most common approach involves using built-in recovery options. The exact method depends on whether your Windows account is a local account or linked to a Microsoft account.
Method 1: Using the Forgot Password Wizard (Local Account)
For Windows accounts that are local to your computer (not tied to an online Microsoft account), Windows provides a way to reset your password directly from the login screen, provided you have set up security questions or a password reset disk previously.
Follow these steps, based on common Windows procedures and information from the Microsoft Tech Community:
- Restart the computer: Initiate a restart of your computer. Allow it to boot up until you reach the login screen.
- Click the reset password link: On the Windows login screen, look for a "Reset Password" link. This link is usually visible if you've entered an incorrect password and is specifically designed for situations where you've forgotten your password.
- Start the wizard: Clicking this link will launch the "Forgot Password Wizard." This wizard will guide you through a series of prompts, which may include answering pre-set security questions or using a previously created password reset disk to establish a new password.
This method is directly supported by information found on resources like the Microsoft Tech Community regarding Windows 10 password resets when locked out.
Method 2: Microsoft Account Password Reset
If your Windows account is linked to a Microsoft account (e.g., your Outlook, Hotmail, or Xbox account), you can reset your password online from any device with internet access.
Here’s how to do it:
- Access the Microsoft Account Recovery Page: On another computer or mobile device, open a web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft account recovery page (e.g.,
account.live.com/password/reset). - Verify Your Identity: Follow the on-screen instructions to verify your identity. This typically involves entering your Microsoft account email address, phone number, or Skype name, and then receiving a verification code via email or text message to a pre-registered recovery method.
- Set a New Password: Once your identity is verified, you will be prompted to create a new password for your Microsoft account.
- Log In to Your Computer: After resetting the password online, you can return to your locked computer and use your newly created password to log in. Ensure your computer has an internet connection for the new password to synchronize.
Comparing Password Reset Methods
Understanding the differences between local and Microsoft account resets can help you determine the most appropriate approach for your situation:
| Feature | Local Account Password Reset | Microsoft Account Password Reset |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Utilizes the "Forgot Password Wizard" on the login screen or a pre-created password reset disk. | Performed online via the official Microsoft account recovery website. |
| Connectivity | Generally does not require an active internet connection if using security questions or a reset disk. | Requires an active internet connection (from another device) to access the recovery page and synchronize the new password. |
| Prerequisites | Requires security questions to have been set up previously on the local account, or a physical password reset disk. | Requires access to the recovery email or phone number associated with your Microsoft account for identity verification. |
| Availability | Available directly from the login screen when the "Reset Password" link appears. | Can be initiated from any internet-connected device, providing flexibility even if your primary computer is offline. |
Important Considerations
- Administrator Rights: The ability to reset passwords often depends on the type of user account (standard vs. administrator). If you're locked out of an administrator account and no other admin account is accessible, more advanced recovery steps might be necessary (e.g., using recovery media or specialized tools).
- Security Questions: For local accounts, having pre-set security questions is crucial for using the "Forgot Password Wizard." If these were never set up, this method might not be viable.
- Password Reset Disk: Creating a password reset disk (a USB drive) for a local account is a proactive measure that can save you significant trouble if you forget your password. This must be created before you are locked out.
- Professional Help: If standard methods fail, or if you're dealing with encrypted drives (like BitLocker), it might be best to seek assistance from a computer technician to avoid data loss.
Preventing Future Lockouts
To avoid future lockout scenarios:
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create complex passwords that are hard to guess and use a unique one for each account.
- Utilize a Password Manager: Consider using a reputable password manager to securely store your credentials.
- Keep Recovery Information Updated: Regularly review and update the recovery email addresses and phone numbers associated with your online accounts (like Microsoft accounts).
- Set Up Security Questions: For local accounts, always set up security questions during account creation or afterwards.
- Create a Password Reset Disk: For local accounts, create and keep a password reset disk in a safe place.
