How to Find Stored Passwords Windows 10/11

Where does Windows 10 store passwords?

To find stored passwords on Windows 10, you first need to know where they are stored. Windows offers a built-in tool called Credential Manager, which acts as a secure vault for login credentials, including usernames and passwords. However, accessing these stored credentials requires authentication.

Beyond Credential Manager, some passwords may also be saved in the Windows Registry, Windows Vault, or via Command Prompt. These credentials are encrypted, and administrative privileges are necessary to view them.

Once you understand where Windows stores passwords, the next step is learning how to access them, the following guide will walk you through the process step by step.

How to find stored passwords on Windows 10

Since Windows 10 stores passwords in multiple locations, there are several methods to retrieve them. Here are the four most effective ways to find stored passwords:

Way 1. Find stored passwords via Credential Manager

Windows Credential Manager stores usernames, passwords, and other login credentials for websites, allowing users to log in automatically without manually entering details each time. Follow these steps to locate stored passwords:

Step 1. Click the Start menu and type Credential Manager in the search bar. Select the Credential Manager option from the search results.

Step 2. The window displays two categories: Web Credentials and Windows Credentials. To view saved website passwords, select Web Credentials and expand the Web Passwords section.

Step 3. Click the Show button next to the stored password. Enter your Windows account password for authentication.

Step 4. For retrieving Windows credentials, select Windows Credentials instead. However, this section typically contains fewer stored credentials unless you're using a corporate network.

Way 2. Find stored passwords via Command Prompt

The Command Prompt is a powerful built-in tool that allows users to retrieve stored passwords without accessing Credential Manager. However, this method requires familiarity with command-line parameters. Follow the steps below to locate saved credentials:

Step 1. Click the Start menu, type cmd, and right-click on Command Prompt. Select Run as administrator to open an elevated command window.

Step 2. Type the following command and press Enter: rundll32.exe keymgr.dll,KRShowKeyMgr

Step 3. A window labeled Stored Usernames and Passwords will appear. Here, you can browse saved credentials and manage stored login information.

Way 3. Find stored passwords via Registry Editor

The Windows Registry stores administrator passwords, but modifying registry settings can be risky. A single incorrect change may disrupt the operating system. Proceed with caution and follow these steps carefully:

Step 1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter to open Command Prompt. In the command window, type regedit and press Enter to launch the Registry Editor.

Step 2. In the Registry Editor, go to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

Step 3. Scroll down and find DefaultPassword in the right panel. Double-click it to view the stored password.

⚠ Warning: Modifying the registry incorrectly may cause system instability or crashes. If you’re unfamiliar with this method, consider using a professional password manager for a safer approach.

Way 4. Find stored passwords via the password reset tool

If you are unable to find the password using built-in methods, a third-party password recovery tool called AOMEI Partition Assistant can help, especially when you have forgotten your laptop password. Its"Reset Windows Password" feature allows you to reset the login credentials for local and Microsoft accounts. It works by creating a bootable USB or CD/DVD that can reset the stored password on the locked system.

Here is how to find stored passwords Windows 10 by resetting it step by step:

Step 1. Connect a prepared USB to any running computer. Install and launch AOMEI Partition Assistant. In the taskbar, click "Tools"> "Reset Windows Password".

Step 2. In the pop-up window, you'll be noted to create a WinPE bootable media. Click "Next" to move on.

Step 3. Here we tick "USB Boot Device", choose your prepared USB for bootable USB creation, and click "Proceed".

Step 4. Note that the USB flash drive needs to be formatted and all data on it will be wiped. Please back up anything important on it and redo it.

Step 5. Boot the computer from this bootable USB, and you will see AOMEI Partition Assistant on the screen. Click "Reset Password", select the Windows system you would like to operate, and click "Next".

Step 6. Then, select the account you would like to operate, choose a feature: "Remove Account Password" or "Reset Account Password", and click "Next".

Step 7. Next, a pop-out window lets you set a new password. After you confirm the new password, please click "Yes" to start the password reset/remove.

Conclusion

Windows 10 stores many passwords in various locations, and retrieving them is possible with the right methods. Whether using Credential Manager, Command Prompt, Registry Editor, or a password reset tool, ensure that you handle passwords securely and ethically. If you are recovering a Windows login password, using a dedicated password reset tool is the most effective solution.