How to Reset Windows 10 Password Without Logging In

Getting locked out of your computer can feel frustrating, but knowing how to reset Windows 10 password without logging in gives you the power to regain access quickly and securely. Whether you’ve forgotten your credentials, inherited a device without login details, or need to recover access for work, there are proven methods that let you reset your password without losing data or reinstalling Windows.

Before you begin, your first and most important step is to identify what type of account you have: a Microsoft Account (linked to an email like Outlook.com) or a local account (created just for that PC). This determines your easiest path forward.

Method Comparison: Find Your Best Solution

Use this table to quickly identify the right method for your situation.

Method	Best For	Difficulty	Key Prerequisites	Data Risk
Microsoft Account Online	Microsoft Account users	Easiest	Internet access, account recovery info	None
Password Reset Disk	Local account users (proactive)	Easy	Disk created before lockout	None
Installation Media (CMD)	Local accounts, no disk	Technical	Windows 10 USB/DVD installer	Low (if done correctly)
Third-Party Tools	All accounts, last resort	Varies	Second PC, USB drive, software purchase	Low (from reputable tools)

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Method 1: Reset via Your Microsoft Account (The Easiest Way)

If you sign in with a Microsoft Account (using an email address), this is your simplest and safest option, as it can be done entirely online.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Visit Microsoft Password Reset Page
2. Click “I forgot my password” below the password field.
3. You’ll be guided to an online recovery page. Enter your Microsoft account email and the characters you see on screen.
4. Microsoft will verify your identity. Choose to receive a security code via an alternate email or phone number you previously set up.
5. Enter the code you receive, then create a new, strong password.
6. Return to your PC’s login screen and sign in with your Microsoft Account email and the new password.

⚠️ Important: If you don’t have access to your old recovery email or phone number, use Microsoft’s sign-in helper tool during the process to explore other verification options.

Method 2: Use a Pre-Created Password Reset Disk

This method is excellent for local accounts but only works if you created the reset disk before getting locked out.

To Use the Disk:

1. Insert the USB flash drive you used as your password reset disk into the locked PC.
2. On the login screen, click “Reset password…” after a failed login attempt.
3. The Password Reset Wizard will open. Follow the prompts, select your USB drive, and create a new password.
4. Log in with the new password. Keep the reset disk safe—you can use the same one for future resets.

Method 3: Safe Mode with Command Prompt (Local Admin Account)

Sometimes you need to take control of your own system without relying on anyone else. This method is perfect for when you’re locked out of your Windows 10 account but still want to regain access using built-in tools. Here’s how you can do it, step by step:

Step 1: Restart into Advanced Startup

• Restart your computer.
• While it’s restarting, hold down the Shift key and click Restart from the login screen.
• This takes you into the Advanced Startup Options menu.

Step 2: Navigate to Safe Mode with Command Prompt

• Choose Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.
• When your PC restarts, press F6 to select Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

Step 3: Activate the Hidden Administrator Account

• In the Command Prompt window, type:Codenet user Administrator /active:yes
• Hit Enter. This enables the built-in Administrator account (which usually has no password).

Step 4: Log in and Reset Your Password

• Reboot your PC.
• Log in using the Administrator account.
• Go to Settings → Accounts → Manage other accounts.
• Select your locked account and reset the password to something new.

Step 5: Secure Your System Again

• Once you’re back in, disable the hidden Administrator account for safety:Codenet user Administrator /active:no
• This ensures no one else can exploit it later.

Why This Works for You

• Direct control: You don’t need external tools or internet access — just Windows’ own features.
• IT-level power: This method gives you admin-level access, which is especially useful if you’re managing multiple systems or recovering a critical workstation.
• Personal safeguard: By re-disabling the hidden admin account, you’re making sure your system stays secure after recovery.

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Method 4: The Installation Media & Command Prompt Method

This is a reliable, built-in technique for local accounts when you don’t have a reset disk. It requires a Windows 10 installation USB or DVD.

Part A: Create Installation Media (If Needed)

Use a working computer to download the official Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website. Run it to create a bootable Windows 10 USB drive.

Part B: Boot and Modify System Files

This process involves using the Command Prompt from the installer to swap a system file, allowing you to reset the password from the login screen.

❗ Critical Warning: Follow these steps carefully. Modifying system files can be risky. The goal is to temporarily replace utilman.exe (Ease of Access) with cmd.exe (Command Prompt).

1. Boot from USB/DVD: Insert the installation media into the locked PC. Restart and press the key to enter the Boot Menu (common keys: F12, F9, F2, Esc). Select to boot from your USB/DVD.
2. Launch Command Prompt: On the Windows Setup screen, press Shift + F10 to open a Command Prompt window.
3. Identify Your Windows Drive: In the Command Prompt, type diskpart and press Enter, then type list volume and press Enter. Look for your main Windows partition (usually labeled “Primary”). Note its drive letter (e.g., D:). Type exit to leave Diskpart.
4. Swap the Files: Replace [DRIVE_LETTER] with the letter you noted (e.g., D:). Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:cmdcopy [DRIVE_LETTER]:\windows\system32\utilman.exe [DRIVE_LETTER]:\ copy [DRIVE_LETTER]:\windows\system32\cmd.exe [DRIVE_LETTER]:\windows\system32\utilman.exe
5. Close the windows, remove the installation media, and let the PC restart to the normal login screen.

Part C: Reset Password & Restore System

1. On the login screen, click the Ease of Access icon (usually in the bottom-right corner). This will now open a Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
2. To reset your password, type: net user [USERNAME] [NEWPASSWORD]. Replace [USERNAME] with your account name and [NEWPASSWORD] with your desired password. Press Enter.
3. Crucially, you must revert the system change. Put the installation media back in, reboot to it, and press Shift+F10 again to open Command Prompt.
4. Restore the original file by typing: copy [DRIVE_LETTER]:\utilman.exe [DRIVE_LETTER]:\windows\system32\utilman.exe and press Enter. You can now reboot and log in with your new password.

Method 5: Using Third-Party Password Reset Tools

Several professional tools like EaseUS WinRescuer, Renee PassNow, or PCUnlocker can automate the process. They are particularly useful if other methods fail or for handling tricky situations like disconnected Microsoft Accounts.

How They Generally Work:

1. Download the software on a separate, working computer.
2. Use it to create a bootable USB drive.
3. Boot the locked PC from this USB, which loads a menu allowing you to remove or reset the password for any local or Microsoft-linked account on the system.
4. Restart the PC and log in.

🔒 Trust & Security Note: Only purchase and download such tools from their official websites. While effective, Microsoft support cannot assist with their use, and they should be a considered option.

Key Considerations and Proactive Advice

• Microsoft vs. Local Accounts: A true Microsoft Account password can only be reset online through Microsoft’s verification process. Third-party tools or local tricks can only disconnect the PC from the account (converting it to a local account) so you can set a new local password, but the online Microsoft account remains unchanged.
• The Ultimate Safeguard: The best solution is preparation. If you use a local account, create a Password Reset Disk today. Go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Create a password reset disk and follow the wizard with a USB drive. Store it securely.
• Data Loss Warning: The “Reset this PC” feature (found in Troubleshoot > Advanced Options) is a last resort. While it can regain access, choosing “Remove everything” will delete all your personal files, apps, and settings.

Now you understand how to reset Windows 10 password without logging in, you’ll never have to worry about being locked out again. By following the right steps—whether through Safe Mode, Command Prompt, or online recovery—you can restore access while keeping your files safe. Taking a few proactive measures, like linking your account to Microsoft or creating a reset disk, ensures you’re always prepared for the future.