How to Fix Windows 10 Forgot password
This comprehensive guide will walk you through 6 proven solutions to address the issue of Windows 10 forgot password, including practical steps for both local and Microsoft accounts.
Forgetting your Windows 10 password can turn a simple login into a major headache. Whether it’s a local account or a Microsoft account, being locked out of your system is frustrating, especially when you need to access files or finish urgent tasks. Fortunately, there are reliable solutions to help you get back into your computer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide six practical methods to resolve Windows 10 forgot password.
Is It Possible to Log In to Windows 10 After Forgot Password?
Many users continue to depend on conventional passwords or PINs for access, as not all PCs and laptops are equipped with biometric scanners or cameras that support Windows Hello. It is now simpler than ever to forget your most recent password, as you may be changing it more frequently, as Microsoft is advocating for online account logins instead of local accounts.
There are multiple ways to log in to Windows 10 after forgetting your password, depending on your account type and preparation. This section will reassure you that solutions exist and preview the six methods we’ll cover to help you overcome this common issue.
Whether you’re dealing with a local account or a Microsoft account, options range from built-in Windows features to third-party tools. Some methods require prior setup, while others can be implemented immediately. Read on to discover how to get into Windows 10 when you’ve forgotten your password.
6 Solutions to Help You When You Forgot Windows 10 Password
When you’re locked out due to a forgotten Windows 10 password, having multiple solutions at your fingertips is essential. Below, we outline six effective methods to reset or bypass your password. Each approach is detailed with clear steps to guide you back into your system.
Method 1. Use Password Hint or Security Questions
Forgot your Windows 10 password? Your password hint or security questions might be the quickest fix. This method leverages the clues you set up during account creation to jog your memory or reset your password directly.
If you're using a local account and have set up a password hint or security questions, this method can help you recover your password.
Step 1. On the login screen, type an incorrect password.
Step 2. If you've set security questions, they will appear after several failed attempts. In the login screen, click the "Reset password" button.
Step 3. In the following interface, answer the security questions one by one. Then follow the guidance to input a new password, and log in the Windows with it.
Method 2. Use a Password Reset Disk
A password reset disk is a lifesaver if you created one before forgetting your password. This method allows you to reset your password directly from the login screen using a pre-made USB.
If you created a password reset disk before losing access, this method is the simplest solution.
Step 1. On the login screen, select "Reset password".
Step 2. As a result, you will be presented with the "Password Reset Wizard" window. Progress further by clicking on the "Next" button.
Step 3. Within the newly opened window, you will need to select the specific password reset disk that corresponds to your system. Once you have made the selection, proceed by clicking on "Next".
Step 4. Now, it is time to create a new password. Enter your desired password, ensuring accuracy, and confirm it by re-entering it. To continue, click on the "Next" button. Allow the process to complete, and when done, click on "Finish" to exit the window.
This method is only available if you prepared a password reset disk in advance.
Method 3. Use a third-party password manager
Wondering how to get into Windows 10 after forgetting your password without a prepared password disk? AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional is your answer. This robust Windows computer management software not only resets passwords but also manages disks and partitions with ease.
It is a user-friendly tool designed to simplify disk management and system maintenance tasks, including password recovery. It’s ideal for users who forgot their Windows password and need a reliable solution.
✔ No preparation required—unlike reset disks or admin accounts.
✔ Support Windows 11/10/8/7 PC and the Server version supports Server 2022/2019/2016/2012.
✔ Intuitive interface suitable for beginners.
✔ Bonus features like disk cloning, partition resizing, PC cleaner, etc.
Step 1. Download and install AOMEI Partition Assistant on a functioning Windows computer. Connect a USB drive to this computer. Launch the AOMEI software and navigate to "Tools" and "Reset Windows Password" on the main interface.
Step 2. Click "Next" to confirm creating a WinPE bootable media.
Step 3. Select the target USB drive and click "Proceed".
Step 4. Note that the USB drive will be formatted during the process. If you have backed up essential data or there is no critical information on it, click "Yes" to proceed.
Step 5. Insert the password reset USB into the Windows computer that requires password resetting. Adjust the boot order in the computer's BIOS to prioritize booting from the USB drive.
Step 6. Once the computer boots from the USB, this tool will launch automatically. Click "Reset Password" and select the target operating system. Then, click "Next".
Step 7. Choose the account for which you want to reset the password and decide whether you want to remove or reset the account password. Select "Reset Account Password" and click "Next".
Step 8. In the "Reset Password" window, enter the new password and click "Yes" to confirm the changes.
Method 4. Use another administrator account
If you have access to another administrator account, you can reset your forgotten password easily.
Step 1. Log in to your computer using the working administrator account.
Step 2. Open the Run dialog box by pressing Windows + R keys and enter in “lusrmgr.msc” and hit Enter.
Step 3. Click on Users in the left sidebar and right-click on your user account and select Set Password.
Step 4. Click on Proceed on the following screen.
Step 5. Leave the fields empty on the following screen and click on OK.
Now you can use the new password to log in to your account.
Method 5. Use Command Prompt in Safe Mode
For tech-savvy users, Safe Mode with Command Prompt offers a manual way to reset your password. This method uses command-line tools to bypass the login screen and regain access.
This method allows you to reset your password using command-line instructions in Safe Mode.
Step 1. Restart your computer and press F8 repeatedly before Windows starts.
Step 2. Select Safe Mode with Command Prompt from the options.
Step 3. Once the Command Prompt opens, type the following command and press Enter:
net user [username] [newpassword]
Replace [username] with your account name and [newpassword] with your desired password.
Method 6. Use the “Reset Password” Option (for Microsoft Accounts)
If you use a Microsoft account and forgot your Windows 10 password, resetting it online is simple. This method relies on Microsoft’s recovery process and an internet connection.
Step 1. Open Microsoft password reset page on a working computer.
Step 2. Enter your email address or phone number you set for your Microsoft account and click "Next".
Step 3. Follow the steps to finish the verification.
Step 4. Once verified, you can enter the new password and confirm it to reset your password.
This method is the easiest and most secure way to regain access to your Microsoft account.
Ending
Forgetting your Windows 10 password doesn’t have to mean losing access permanently. From built-in tools like password hints and Safe Mode to specialized software like AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional, multiple solutions exist to recover your account. AOMEI stands out for its simplicity, reliability, and additional features such as disk cloning, partition management, and system migration. Whether you’re troubleshooting passwords or optimizing your storage, this tool is a valuable addition to your tech toolkit.