How do I reset admin password on Windows 10?
Resetting the administrator password on Windows 10 can be a challenging task, but it’s definitely possible. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to reset the admin password on Windows 10.
Method 1: Resetting the Administrator Password using the Built-in Recovery Options
If you have forgotten your admin password, but still have access to the computer, you can try using the built-in recovery options. Here’s how:
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
- Restart your Windows 10 computer and press the F11 key to boot into the Advanced Startup Options screen.
Step 2: Select the Recovery Options
- From the Advanced Startup Options screen, select Troubleshoot.
- Click on Advanced Options.
- Click on Reset.
Step 3: Reset the Admin Password
- In the Reset Your PC window, select Get Started.
- Click on Reset password.
- Enter a new password for the Administrator account and confirm it by re-entering it in the Retype password field.
- Click Reset to save the changes.
Method 2: Resetting the Administrator Password using a Windows 10 Installation Media
If you have access to a legitimate copy of Windows 10 installation media (such as a DVD or USB drive), you can use it to boot your computer and reset the admin password. Here’s how:
Step 1: Boot from the Windows 10 Installation Media
- Insert the Windows 10 installation media.
- Restart your computer.
- Press the F2, F12, or Del key to enter the boot menu.
- Select the drive with the Windows 10 installation media (usually DVD or USB).
- Press Enter to boot from the media.
Step 2: Access the Windows 10 Setup Environment
- Wait for the Install now window to appear.
- Click on Next.
- Click on Custom (not Upgrade).
- Choose a language and other preferences, then click on Next.
- Select the Command Prompt option.
- Click Next.
Step 3: Reset the Admin Password
- In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter:
net user - Look for the administrator account and make a note of its username.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
net user <username> * - Replace
<username>with the actual name of the administrator account. - Look for the Welcome to the Users screen.
- Click on Reset.
- Enter a new password for the Administrator account and confirm it by re-entering it in the Retype password field.
- Click Reset to save the changes.
Method 3: Resetting the Administrator Password using Third-Party Software
If you can’t access the built-in recovery options or installation media, you can try using third-party software to reset the admin password. Be cautious when using third-party software, as it may pose some security risks to your system. Here’s one popular option:
- Ophcracks
Ophcracks is a free, open-source tool that can reset the admin password on Windows 10. Here’s how to use it:
- Download and install Ophcracks from a reputable source.
- Double-click the Ophcracks executable file to run it.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to select the administrator account and reset the password.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Error: "The system cannot be started": If you encounter this error while trying to boot from the Windows 10 installation media, it may be due to a corrupted installation media or a problem with your computer’s hardware.
- Error: "The administrator password has been changed": If you try to reset the admin password using a third-party tool, you may receive this error. This is usually due to a Windows 10 security feature that prevents third-party software from changing the admin password.
- Error: "The system is not scanning the Windows 10 installation media": If you encounter this error, try restarting your computer and then retry booting from the installation media.
Conclusion
Resetting the admin password on Windows 10 can be a challenging task, but with these three methods, you should be able to regain access to your system. Remember to take steps to secure your account and computer to prevent unauthorized access in the future.