Which method applies to me?

It depends on your account type — Microsoft account, local account, or work/school account — each has a different official reset path.

Is there a free tool that removes any Windows password?

We don't cover or recommend such tools; use only the official recovery methods for accounts you own.

What if I have no recovery email or phone set?

Add one as soon as you regain access, since it's required for future online recovery.

Can I avoid reinstalling Windows as a last resort?

Only if one of the account-recovery or admin-assisted options applies; otherwise reinstalling is the documented fallback.

How to Reset a Windows 10 Password

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This guide covers only supported, legitimate ways to recover access to a Windows 10 account you own, from Microsoft account online reset to organizational help-desk support.

Updated August 9, 2026 · PC Utility Hub Editorial Team

Before you start

Identify what kind of account is locked: a Microsoft account (signs in with an email), a local account, or a work/school account managed by an organization. The correct recovery path depends on this.

Option 1: Microsoft account online reset

1At the lock screen, click 'I forgot my password'.
2On any internet-connected device, browsers to account.live.com/password/reset.
3Enter your email, choose a verification method (recovery email/phone/authenticator), and follow prompts.
4Create a new password and sign back in.

Option 2: PIN reset

1Click 'I forgot my PIN' on the lock screen.
2Verify with your Microsoft account password.
3Set a new PIN for future sign-ins.

Option 3: Security questions (local account, older Windows 10 builds)

Some Windows 10 local accounts set up with security questions can reset the password directly from the lock screen by answering them.

1On the lock screen, click 'Reset password' if the option appears.
2Answer the configured security questions correctly.
3Set a new password.

Option 4: Admin-assisted local reset

If another administrator account exists on the same PC, they can reset your password without knowing the old one.

1Have the admin sign in to their own account.
2Open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users (or Control Panel > User Accounts).
3Select the locked account and choose to change/reset the password.

Option 5: Domain or Entra ID (work/school) accounts

Contact your organization's IT help desk. They can reset the password through administrative tools, and some organizations offer a self-service password reset portal.

When nothing above works

No recovery contact info, no other admin, no reset disk, and no IT department to call means the only supported path left is reinstalling Windows, which erases the system drive. Recover important files first with a file recovery tool if the drive is still accessible from external media, then reinstall using the Media Creation Tool or Rufus.

Warning: Reinstalling Windows erases all data on the system drive. Attempt every other recovery avenue first.

Frequently asked questions

Which method applies to me?: It depends on your account type — Microsoft account, local account, or work/school account — each has a different official reset path.
Is there a free tool that removes any Windows password?: We don't cover or recommend such tools; use only the official recovery methods for accounts you own.
What if I have no recovery email or phone set?: Add one as soon as you regain access, since it's required for future online recovery.
Can I avoid reinstalling Windows as a last resort?: Only if one of the account-recovery or admin-assisted options applies; otherwise reinstalling is the documented fallback.