🔑 Forgot Windows 10 / 11 Password? Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Forgetting your laptop password can be frustrating, but don’t worry — there are safe ways to get back into your Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer. In this guide, I’ll explain three simple methods you can try.
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1. Check: Microsoft Account or Local Account?
Before we start, look at the login screen carefully:
If you see an email address (like yourname@outlook.com or Gmail), you are using a Microsoft account.
If you see only a username (like “Admin” or your name without email), it’s a Local account.
👉 The recovery steps are different for each.
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2. Method 1: Reset Microsoft Account Password (Easy & Recommended)
If you use a Microsoft account:
1. On another device (phone or PC), open this link: Reset Microsoft Password.
2. Select “I forgot my password.”
3. Enter your Microsoft email ID (the one shown on your locked laptop).
4. Choose to receive a verification code by SMS or email.
5. Enter the code, then create a new password.
6. Restart your laptop → log in with the new password. ✅
✔ This method is the easiest and works instantly if you have access to your recovery phone/email.
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3. Method 2: Reset Local Account Password using Command Prompt
If you’re using a Local account (no email), follow these steps:
1. On the login screen, click the Power icon.
2. Hold the Shift key and click Restart.
3. Your PC will boot into the Recovery Menu.
4. Go to: Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Command Prompt.
5. In the black Command Prompt window, type:
net user
(This will list all user accounts.)
6. Find your account name, then type:
net user YourUsername NewPassword
Example:
net user Prathap 12345
7. Close Command Prompt → Continue → Restart PC.
8. Login with your new password. 🎉
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4. Method 3: Reset This PC (Keep My Files)
If nothing works, you can reset Windows.
1. On login screen → Hold Shift → click Restart.
2. Go to Troubleshoot → Reset this PC.
3. Choose Keep my files.
4. Follow the instructions — Windows will reinstall and allow you to set a new password.
⚠️ This removes apps and settings but keeps your personal files safe.
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5. ⚠ Important Warning: BitLocker
If your laptop has BitLocker encryption enabled, you will need the BitLocker recovery key during resets or repairs.
You may have saved it in your Microsoft account, USB, or printed copy.
Without the key, your data may be lost permanently.
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✅ Quick Summary
Microsoft Account? Reset at account.live.com/password/reset.
Local Account? Use Command Prompt method (net user).
Still stuck? Reset this PC (Keep my files).
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💡 Tip for the future:
Always link your account with Microsoft — makes password recovery simple.
Save your BitLocker recovery key in a safe place.
Create a Password Reset Disk (Control Panel option).
👉 Now you can log back into your Windows 10/11 laptop without stress!
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