Password reset (Windows login)
Summary
This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: Password reset (Windows login). Follow the steps below to fix the issue.
Common Causes
Before You Begin
This article covers password resets for Windows 10 and Windows 11. The steps differ depending on whether you sign in with a Microsoft account, a local account, or a domain/work account.
Managed clients: If your device is provided and managed by 220.com.au, please open a support ticket before attempting any reset. Domain-joined machines often require administrator intervention, and unauthorised resets may breach your company's security policy.
BitLocker warning: If your device is encrypted with BitLocker (common on business machines), resetting your password without the recovery key can result in permanent data loss. If you do not have your BitLocker recovery key, contact your IT administrator before proceeding. See How to encrypt USB drive for related guidance on storing recovery keys safely.
If You Know Your Current Password
Use this method to change a password you still remember. On Windows 10/11, the simplest path is through Settings:
- Click Start > Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Under Password, click Change.
- Enter your current password to verify your identity.
- Enter your new password twice, then add a password hint.
- Click Next and then Finish.
Make sure your new password meets your organisation's complexity requirements. If you are unsure what is required, check with your IT administrator before changing it.
If You Forgot Your Password
Choose the option that matches how you sign in to Windows.
Option 1: Use a PIN (Windows Hello)
If you previously set up Windows Hello on this device:
- On the sign-in screen, look for Sign-in options beneath the password field.
- Select the PIN icon and enter your PIN to sign in.
- Once signed in, change your password through Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
Picture password was a feature in earlier versions of Windows and is not available on Windows 11. Use your PIN instead.
Option 2: Reset via Microsoft Account
Use this method if you sign in to Windows with a Microsoft account (typically a personal or Outlook.com address).
- On the sign-in screen, enter your Microsoft account email address.
- Click I forgot my password below the password field.
- Choose Forgot password on the recovery page, then enter the characters you see to prove you are not a robot.
- Click Next and choose how you would like to receive your verification code: Email or Phone.
- Enter the code you receive.
- Create and confirm a new password.
- Return to the Windows sign-in screen and sign in with your new password.
If you do not receive the verification email or SMS, check your spam folder, confirm the correct recovery contact details are listed at account.microsoft.com/security, and ensure your phone has signal. If two-factor authentication is enabled on your Microsoft account, you will need to complete that step as well.
Option 3: Local Account Reset
Use this method only if you sign in to Windows with a local account (no Microsoft account attached). If your device is joined to a company domain, these steps will not work and you must contact your IT administrator.
If you previously created a password reset disk:
- Insert the password reset USB drive.
- On the sign-in screen, enter any password (it will be incorrect).
- When prompted, click Reset password and follow the Password Reset Wizard.
If you do not have a password reset disk:
A USB recovery drive created with the Windows "Create a recovery drive" tool can technically be used to access Command Prompt and reset a local account password, but the exact steps vary by Windows version and BIOS/UEFI settings. Because of this complexity and the risk of data loss, we strongly recommend contacting your IT administrator rather than attempting it yourself.
On Windows 11, TPM and Secure Boot requirements can prevent standard local password reset techniques from working. Do not attempt registry or system file edits unless directed by a qualified technician.
Option 4: Domain or Work Account
If your device is joined to a company domain (common for 220.com.au managed clients), you cannot reset your password from the device itself. Password resets for domain accounts must be performed by an administrator or through your company's self-service password reset portal.
Please open a support ticket and we will assist you. If you are working remotely, you may also need to connect to the company VPN from home before the new password will sync to your device.
What NOT to Do
The "Reset this PC" option in Windows Recovery is not a password reset method. It reinstalls Windows and can result in data loss, removed applications, and reconfiguration of your device. Do not use it to reset a forgotten password unless you have been specifically directed to by your IT administrator and have a complete backup.
How to Prevent Future Issues
- Store your password in a reputable password manager rather than writing it down.
- Set up a Windows Hello PIN as a backup sign-in method via Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Keep your recovery email and phone number up to date at account.microsoft.com/security.
- Ensure your device is running the latest version of Windows. See How to update Windows.
- If you use a local account, consider creating a password reset disk in advance.
Related Articles
- Cannot login with domain credentials
- Cannot login to company portal
- Connecting to company VPN from home
- How to update Windows
- How to encrypt USB drive
Still Having Issues?
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