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
Password Reset (Windows Login) - Windows 11
If You Know Your Current Password
1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete
2. Click Change a password
3. Enter your current password
4. Enter your new password twice
5. Press Enter or click the arrow
If You Forgot Your Password
Option 1: Use a PIN or Picture Password
If you set up Windows Hello:
- Try logging in with your PIN instead
- Use your picture password if configured
Option 2: Reset via Microsoft Account
1. On the login screen, enter your Microsoft email
2. Click I forgot my password
3. Enter the characters you see
4. Choose how to verify:
- Email: Get a verification code
- Phone: Get a text message
5. Enter the code
6. Create a new password
7. Log in with your new password
Option 3: Local Account Reset (More Complex)
Note: This requires a USB recovery drive or reinstallation.
Using a Password Reset Disk (if you created one previously):
1. Insert the password reset disk
2. On login screen, enter wrong password
3. Click OK > Use password reset disk
4. Follow the wizard
Option 4: Reset Your PC
If nothing else works:
1. Turn off your PC completely
2. Turn it on and press the power button repeatedly
3. Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC
4. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything
5. Follow the prompts
Warning: "Keep my files" may require a Microsoft account login afterward.
How to Prevent Future Issues
- Write down your password and store it safely
- Add a PIN in Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options
- Set up password reset questions on your Microsoft account
- Consider a password manager