Don't know original password anymore. How can I reset laptop password without original password?

Question

Windows 11 laptop asks me to reset password. Asks for current password and new password. Don't remember original password. No "Forgot Password" prompt visible.
How can I reset laptop password without original password?

Answer 1

Personally,

To cut thru millions of wrong answers, this is what I did and still do.

1. Download Boot Hirens USB
2. Get a Blank USB
3. Download Rufus
4. Install BootHirens USB as a Bootable USB using RUFUS
5. The Key combination varies per Laptop or Desktop, but change the Boot setting to Boot from USB
6. Hirems will load to a desktop
7. Hit the Start Button (Windows Icon Bottom left
8. In the list of Utilities, locate Windows PW reset
9. Open it. You will see all of the user names. I leave the Password Blank & Save. (Local Accounts Not Domain Accounts)
10. Remove Hirens Boot USB
11. Boot into normal mode>Use the local acct you just updated the PW or left blank and saved
12. Enjoy your laptop (All free), and there are many other utilities. Hirens is a lifesaver

Answer 2

Hello John Hooker,

Thank you for posting in Q&A forum.

I assume your laptop is in a workgroup and you want to reset local account password.
You can try the steps in the following link.

Change or Reset Your Password in Windows

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/change-or-reset-your-password-in-windows-8271d17c-9f9e-443f-835a-8318c8f68b9c

If it does not work above, you can also try the steps in the link below.

How to Reset Admin Password Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

https://www.solveyourtech.com/how-to-reset-admin-password-windows-11-a-step-by-step-guide/

Please note: Information posted in the given link is hosted by a third party. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy and effectiveness of information.

I hope the information above is helpful.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to let us know.

Best Regards,

Daisy Zhou

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