How To Reset Your Windows Password

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How To Reset Your Windows Password. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

If you have forgotten your Windows login password or your domain credential has expired, you may be unable to access your computer or business applications. This guide explains how to reset your Windows password and regain access to your account safely.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart your computer and attempt to log in again to confirm the password is incorrect.
2. Check that Caps Lock is not enabled before entering your password.
3. If using a domain account, ensure your computer is connected to the office network or VPN.
4. Use the password reset option on the Windows login screen if available.
5. If you cannot reset the password yourself, Open a Ticket with your IT support team for assistance.

Detailed Instructions

Resetting a Local Windows Account Password

1. On the Windows login screen, look for the Reset password link below the password field.
2. If you previously created a password reset disk, insert the USB drive and follow the Password Reset Wizard.
3. If you do not have a reset disk and have access to an administrator account on the machine, log in with that administrator account.
4. Use the User Accounts control panel to manage other user accounts and reset the password for the locked account.
5. Enter a new password for the locked account, confirm it, and save the changes.

If you use a Microsoft account to sign in to Windows, you can reset your password online at account.microsoft.com using a different device.

Resetting a Domain Credential Password

1. Ensure your computer is connected to the business network or VPN.
2. Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete on the keyboard.
3. Select Change a password from the security options screen.
4. Enter your domain username, current password (if known), and new password.
5. Confirm the new password and press Enter or click the arrow button.
6. If your password has expired, Windows may prompt you to change it automatically upon login.

Do not attempt to guess your password multiple times. After several failed attempts, your domain account may be locked for security reasons.

Troubleshooting

Account Is Locked After Failed Login Attempts

• Wait approximately 15 to 30 minutes to see if the account unlocks automatically, depending on your organisation's policy.
• Ensure no other devices or saved credentials are attempting to log in with the old password, as this can cause repeated lockouts.
• If the account remains locked, Open a Ticket with your IT support team so they can verify your identity and unlock the account.

Password Reset Option Not Available

• The Reset password link only appears for local accounts with a password reset disk configured.
• Domain accounts must be reset by an administrator or through your organisation's identity management system.
• If you are the only administrator and are locked out, you may need professional assistance to regain access.

New Password Not Working

• Restart your computer after changing a domain password to ensure the new credentials sync with the server.
• Update saved passwords in web browsers and email clients to match your new Windows password.
• Check that Num Lock is in the expected state when entering your password.

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