How to Reset Forgot Computer Password Windows 10 [6 Ways]

If you've forgotten your Windows 10 computer password, it can be frustrating, but there are several ways to regain access to your system. The process typically involves steps designed to either recover or reset your password without needing to lose data. Depending on the account type and available recovery options, you may be able to use password reset disks, security questions, or external tools to regain access. It's also crucial to consider the specific account type, whether it's a local account or a Microsoft account, as the approach can vary slightly.

Generally, the reset process might include verifying your identity, using backup recovery methods, or even restoring system settings without affecting personal files. Keep in mind that the ability to reset your password without losing data largely depends on having set up the appropriate recovery options in advance.

How to reset forgot computer password Windows 10

Several third-party tools are available to help reset Windows 10 passwords, and one effective option is AOMEI Partition Assistant. Its "Reset Windows Password" feature enables Windows 11/10/8/7 users to remove forgotten passwords and unlock their PCs with a single click. The best part is that no technical knowledge or command-line experience is required, making it accessible for anyone to reset or remove their original Windows password effortlessly.

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. 

How to reset forgot computer password Windows 10 manually

Alternatively, you can try manual methods to reset your Windows 10 password and unlock your computer. However, these methods are often complex and come with certain limitations. For those with limited technical experience, opting for an automatic and straightforward solution is generally the better choice.

Way 1. Reset Windows 10 password using security questions

Creating a password reset disk is one of the simplest ways to recover a lost Windows password. If you’ve previously prepared one, resetting your Windows 10 password and regaining access is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps to set a new 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.

Way 2. Reset forgotten password via Command Prompt

If you’re logged into Windows 10 using a PIN, picture password, or another administrator account, you can reset your password through Command Prompt. Follow these steps to proceed:

Step 1. Press the Windows key + X to open the Quick Access menu, then select Command Prompt.

Step 2. Type net user and press Enter to display a list of all user accounts.

Step 3. To reset the password for a specific account, enter the following command:

net user [username] [newpassword]

Replace [username] with your account name and [newpassword] with your desired password.

Step 4. Enter your new password when prompted, then confirm it to complete the process.

Way 3. Change password with a Windows password reset disk

A password reset disk is a USB drive or SD card that you create to reset your Windows 10 password. Once inserted into your PC, it allows you to reset your password directly from the lock screen, even without logging into Windows. If you haven’t created a password reset disk yet, follow Guide 1 to make one before proceeding.

Step 1. Insert the disk or USB into your PC and click “Reset password” below the blank.

Step 2. Click “Next” button in the pop-up window and choose the target password reset disk. Click “Next”.

Step 3. Input the new password and the hint and click “Next” button.

Step 4. Click “Finish” to complete all the processes. Now, you can try to log in with the new password.

Way 4. Use Microsoft account to reset password if forgotten

During the installation of Windows 10, you'll be prompted to create a Microsoft account, which can be used to recover a forgotten password. Here’s how to reset your password using your Microsoft account:

Step 1. Ensure your Windows 10 PC is connected to the internet. On the login screen, click "Forgot password".

Step 2. Enter your Microsoft account email address and press Enter. You’ll receive a verification code via email or text message.

Step 3. Enter the verification code and follow the instructions to reset your password. Be sure to choose a strong, secure password.

Way 5. Reset Windows 10 PC to set up new password

If all other methods to recover your password fail, resetting your computer is the final option. Here’s how to reset your Windows 10 PC:

Step 1. On the login screen, press and hold the Shift key, then click the Power icon and select Restart.

Step 2. Keep holding the Shift key until the "Choose an option" screen appears.

Step 3. Select Troubleshoot.

Step 4. Click Reset this PC, then choose "Remove Everything".

Step 5. Select Only the drive where Windows is installed.

Step 6. Click Just remove my files, then click Reset to begin the process.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to reset your password in Windows 10 using six different methods, including using AOMEI Partition Assistant to reset your password efficiently, you’re well-equipped to regain access to your system. While these solutions are straightforward, it’s essential to take steps to avoid forgetting your password again. Consider setting up security questions, creating a password reset disk, or regularly backing up your passwords to stay prepared.