Initial sign-in password to use laptop

Question

When I first turn on my laptop, the first screen asks for me to provide a sign-in password.

Where can I change this password

Answer 1

Are you locked out of Windows because you cannot provide your login password, have you forgotten your password?

If so:

1

If you log into Windows with a Microsoft Account, use the steps on this page:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/account-billing/reset-a-forgotten-microsoft-account-password-eff4f067-5042-c1a3-fe72-b04d60556c37

2

If you log into Windows with a Local Account, use the steps on this page:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/reset-your-windows-10-local-account-password-86912508-e584-37cc-86eb-6e9b0542b5ba

Answer 2

The password on the first sign-in screen is either a Microsoft account password or a local account password. The way to change it depends on how sign-in is configured.

To change the password when already signed in (Windows 10/11):

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Select Accounts > Sign-in options (or use this shortcut: Sign-in options).
3. Under Password, select Change.
4. Enter the current password, then set and confirm the new password by following the on-screen instructions.

If the account is a Microsoft account and the current password is forgotten:

1. At the Windows sign-in screen, select I forgot my password and follow the prompts, or
2. From any browser, go to Reset password and follow the steps to reset the Microsoft account password.

If the account is a local account and the current password is forgotten:

1. On the Windows sign-in screen, select the password entry button.
2. Select OK and then Reset password.
3. Answer the security questions configured when the account was created and set a new password.

If there is another administrator account on the same PC and the locked account is a local account, the password can be reset from that admin account:

1. Open Computer Management.
2. Expand Local Users and Groups > Users.
3. Right-click the user account and select Set Password....
4. Enter and confirm the new password.

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References:

• Change or reset your password in Windows
• Use a screen reader to navigate sign in options in Windows