Forgot Your Windows Sign-In Password or Locked Out of Your PC

Getting locked out of a Windows PC is frustrating, but there are legitimate options depending on how your account is set up. The right path depends on whether you sign in with a Microsoft account or a local (offline) account.

Option 1: You Sign In With a Microsoft Account

This is the most common setup on Windows 10 and 11. Your password is the same one you use for Outlook, OneDrive, and other Microsoft services.

1. On the sign-in screen, click I forgot my PIN (if prompted) or type an incorrect password to see the reset link.
2. Click Reset password beneath the password field.
3. Windows will ask you to verify your identity using your recovery email or phone number — the same process as at account.microsoft.com. Make sure the PC is connected to the internet.
4. Once verified, create a new password and sign in.

Option 2: You Use a Local (Offline) Account

If you set up Windows without a Microsoft account, your password is stored only on the device.

• Security questions: On Windows 10 and 11, if you set up security questions when creating your local account, you'll see a link below the password field after a failed attempt. Click it, answer your questions, and you can reset the password.
• Another administrator account: If someone else has an admin account on the same PC, they can go to Settings > Accounts > Other users, select your account, and reset your password from there.

What If Neither Option Works?

If you have no recovery options available for a local account, Microsoft does not provide an official remote reset. Your remaining options are to reinstall Windows (which preserves files if you choose the right option during setup) or visit a local repair shop for in-person assistance. Be very cautious of online guides that instruct you to boot from USB drives and run command-line tools to bypass security — these can leave your PC in an insecure state and may void support agreements.

Prevent This Happening Again

• Switch to a Microsoft account sign-in so you have cloud-based recovery.
• Set up a PIN as a backup sign-in method under Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
• Add security questions to your local account if you stay offline.

Need more help? Ask us and describe your setup.