How to Reset a Forgotten Windows Password Without Losing Files

Locked out? Don't panic

Before anything drastic: check Caps Lock, try your password with the on-screen keyboard, and try any PIN or picture password you may have set. If you use a Microsoft account, you can also reset it from any device at account.live.com/password/reset — the new password works on the PC once it is online.

Option 1: Reset via security questions (local account)

At the sign-in screen, click Reset password (appears after a wrong attempt), answer your security questions, and create a new password. This is the fastest method when available.

Option 2: Reset via another admin account

If another user on the PC has administrator rights:

1. Sign in as them and open Computer Management → Local Users and Groups → Users.
2. Right-click your account → Set Password.

Option 3: Reset with Windows installation media

1. On another PC, download the Windows 11 media creation tool and make a bootable USB.
2. Boot the locked PC from the USB (usually F12 or F2 for the boot menu).
3. At the setup screen press Shift+F10 to open Command Prompt.
4. Use the utility below to enable the built-in Administrator, then reset your account from there.

Option 4: Reset the PC (last resort)

Settings → Recovery → Reset this PC → Keep my files reinstalls Windows but keeps your documents. You will need to reinstall apps.

We can help

If you're stuck, our technicians can guide you through the recovery remotely. Contact support.