Resetting a Forgotten Windows 10 Local Admin Password

This guide outlines methods to reset a lost password for a local administrator account on Windows 10.

Important Note: These methods only apply to local accounts, not Microsoft accounts.

Before you begin:

• Try to remember your password.
• If you have a password reset disk created beforehand, that’s the easiest method (Trick 1).
• The other methods (Trick 2 & 3) involve modifying system files and are riskier. Proceed with caution and create a backup if possible.

Trick 1: Using a Password Reset Disk (Recommended)

1. Insert your password reset disk and choose your administrator account on the login screen.
2. Enter an incorrect password. A “Reset password” link should appear below the password box. Click it.
3. Follow the on-screen wizard to create a new password.

Trick 2: Using a Windows Installation Disk (Advanced)

Requirements:

• A Windows 10 installation disk or USB drive.
• Understanding of using Command Prompt.

1. Boot your computer from the installation disk.
2. Navigate to “Repair your computer” > “Troubleshoot” > “Command Prompt.”
3. Run these commands carefully, one by one, pressing Enter after each:
   • move c:\windows\system32\utilman.exe c:\ (Moves the original utility manager)
   • copy c:\windows\system32\cmd.exe c:\windows\system32\utilman.exe (Copies Command Prompt to replace the utility manager)
4. Reboot your computer (remove the installation disk).
5. On the login screen, click the “Ease of Access” icon (replaced utility manager) to launch Command Prompt.
6. Reset your password using the command: net user [username] [new password] (Replace [username] with your actual username).
7. Close Command Prompt and log in with your new password.

Detailed guide with screenshots: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=o9sVMYXZlSg

Trick 3: Using Offline NT Password Editor (Advanced & Risky)

Requirements:

• Another computer to download and prepare the program.
• ISO burner software (e.g., FreeISOBurner).
• Understanding of modifying system files (risky).

1. On another computer, download Offline NT Password Editor and burn the ISO file to a CD/DVD or USB drive.
2. Boot your locked computer from the created CD/DVD or USB drive.
3. Launch the program and follow the on-screen prompts to reset the administrator password.

Warning: This method involves modifying system files and can potentially damage your system if not done correctly. Proceed with extreme caution and consider professional help if needed.

Additional Notes:

• Creating a password reset disk beforehand is the safest and easiest way to recover from a lost password.
• For additional security, consider using a strong password and enabling two-factor authentication for your Microsoft account.