Reset Windows 10 Password with USB [Tutorial]

2 min read 1 year ago
Published on May 19, 2024 This response is partially generated with the help of AI. It may contain inaccuracies.

Table of Contents

How to Reset Your Windows 10 Administrative Password

  1. Determine Account Type:

    • If you have a local account without an email linked to your computer, this tutorial is for you.
    • If you have a Microsoft-based account, there is a different process, but you can still follow along for general knowledge.
  2. Prepare Windows 10 Installation Media:

    • Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
    • Create a bootable DVD or USB flash drive using the tool.
    • Boot your computer from the DVD or USB drive. Adjust boot order in BIOS settings if needed.
  3. Access Elevated Command Prompt:

    • Boot from the Windows 10 installation media.
    • Hold down Shift and F10 simultaneously to open the elevated command prompt window.
  4. Enter Commands:

    • Type diskpart and press Enter.
    • Type list volume and press Enter.
    • Select the main partition of your system (usually the largest volume).
  5. Navigate to System Partition:

    • Type CD D: (replace D with your system partition letter).
    • Type exit to close the command prompt window.
    • Type CLS to clear the screen.
  6. Copy Utility Manager:

    • Type copy utilman.exe utilman1.exe and press Enter.
    • Type copy cmd.exe cmd1.exe and press Enter.
    • Type del utilman.exe and press Enter.
    • Type rename cmd.exe utilman.exe and press Enter.
  7. Reset Password:

    • Close all open windows.
    • Cancel the Windows installation.
    • On the lock screen, click on the Ease of Access icon.
    • Open a command prompt window by typing control userpasswords2 and pressing Enter.
    • Select the username, click on "Reset Password," enter and confirm the new password.
  8. Log In with New Password:

    • Enter the new password and confirm.
    • Click "OK" to save the changes.
    • Close the command prompt window.
    • Log in using the new password.
  9. For Microsoft Account Users:

    • If you have a Microsoft account, create an administrator account using net user administrator /active.
    • Sign in with the new administrator account to manage other accounts.
  10. Conclusion:

    • You have successfully reset your Windows 10 administrative password.
    • Remember to keep your new password secure.

By following these steps, you can regain access to your Windows 10 computer even if you forgot the administrative password.