Need help resetting windows password

Question

Cannot access windows at Home Screen due to failed password. Unable to get into windows to create a recovery disk. Is there work around to this?

Answer 1

If you cannot access Windows due to a failed password, you can use the Microsoft Entra self-service password reset (SSPR) feature if it is configured for your organization. This allows you to reset your password directly from the sign-in screen. Here are the steps to follow:

1. On the Windows sign-in screen, look for a Reset password or Forgot password link.
2. Click on the link, and follow the prompts to reset your password using the SSPR process.

If SSPR is not available, you may need to use a Windows installation DVD or USB to access the recovery options and perform a system restore to a point where you could log in successfully. This involves:

1. Inserting the Windows installation media and restarting your computer.
2. Booting from the media and selecting Repair your computer.
3. Choosing System Restore and selecting a restore point where you had access to your account.

Please note that using System Restore will not delete your personal files, but you may need to reinstall some applications afterward.

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References:

• Enable Microsoft Entra self-service password reset on the Windows sign-in screen
• How to use System Restore to log on when you lose access to an account

Answer 2

Hi Josh,

Thank you for sharing your question. I understand about your Windows password reset problem. I get how annoying it can be when you're locked out and can't make a recovery disk from Windows itself. I am here to help.

Here's the deal when you can't get to the desktop, you can't use normal tools, but Windows does have other ways to get back in.

Here's what to try

Password Reset Stuff

If you use a Microsoft account, just hit up account.live.com/password/reset on another device. Change your password, and you should be good to go.

If it's a local account, you'll need to get a little techy. Boot your PC from a Windows USB or DVD. When the setup screen pops up, click Repair your computer, then Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, and finally Command Prompt. From there, you can turn on the hidden Administrator account or change the password using commands.

Make a USB Drive on Another PC

Since you're locked out, grab another computer and download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft. This will let you make a bootable USB.

Heads up If BitLocker or encryption is on, be certain you have your recovery key before you start.

 

I hope this helps,

Best Regards,

Noel