Forgot Windows Administrator Password, How to Unlock Your Computer

Haven't used your computer for a while and forgot the Windows password? Mistakenly type your passwords and get your account locked out? If you search this account access issues on the net, most users would suggest you to use a password reset disk or reinstall your whole operating system. Even as a computer technician, I never realize the thing to create a password reset disk after setting up Windows. So when we found ourselves in the uncommon situation where we forgot Windows administrator password and don't have a password reset disk, the following tips and tricks might be helpful for you to recover or reset Windows password, and unlock your computer without data loss.

Since it is very likely that the majority of people have already tried this option, some will find this tip redundant or useless. However, the fact is that trying to guess your old password can work, if you take a few extra steps.

For one, make sure you write down every single option or combination you try. This way, you will avoid using the same ones all over again. Second, think about all of the things your old password could have been associated with. Things such as pet’s names, kids birthday or nickname or a place you are fond of. Whatever the case may be, try guessing it and see it that will work for you.

When you type an incorrect password at Windows login screen, it might display the password hint you set up previously. Hopefully this hint can also help you recall your password.

Every versions of Windows come with a built-in Administrator account, that was created during Windows installation. By default, this account is hidden from Windows logon screen and it's not password protected. The built-in Administrator account is only accessible in Safe Mode.

When you turn on your computer, repeatedly press the F8 key on your keyboard and select Safe Mode from the Advanced Boot Options menu. You should be able to login to the Administrator account with blank password. Once logged in, go to the Control Panel and you can reset / change passwords of any other accounts.

PCUnlocker is the most well-known password recovery software that can reset / bypass Windows password from a boot CD or USB stick. It works with all versions and editions of Windows, including Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista and XP.

To get started, use another computer to make a PCUnlocker boot CD. Just download the PCUnlocker ISO file and burn it to CD (or USB stick) with freeware ISO2Disc. Once you've created a PCUnlocker boot CD, insert it to the computer you're trying to reset the password for.


After successfully booting from the CD, PCUnlocker will launch automatically and show you a list of user accounts for your Windows installation. Choose an account and click "Reset Password" button. Click Yes to confirm that you want to reset the password. You'll be informed that your password is removed successfully. Reboot the machine and take out the CD. You can now login without a password. This can also help you unlock a locked or disabled Administrator account.

For more information, please refer to this site: http://www.top-password.com/