What should you check before resetting your password?
Check the keyboard language and Caps Lock. Note exactly what the sign-in field is asking for. A failed sign-in alone does not tell you which recovery method you need.
- Account password: use the Microsoft or local account instructions.
- PIN: go to the PIN section.
- BitLocker recovery screen: go to the recovery key section.
For Microsoft account sign-in, check your connection using the network icon on the lock screen. For a work or school computer, contact its administrator.
How do you reset a Microsoft account password?
- On your phone or another computer, open Microsoft password recovery.
- Enter the account email or another sign-in identifier.
- Choose an available verification method and enter the code you receive.
- Create a new password.
In Windows, select password sign-in if the PIN field is showing. Recovery replaces the old password; it does not reveal it.
No access to your recovery email or phone?
Start with the Microsoft sign-in helper. If directed to the recovery form, use a familiar device and location. Prepare account information and an email address you can access.
If two-step verification is enabled and you have lost every verification method, the form cannot bypass it. Microsoft support cannot remove that protection for you either.
How do you reset a local Windows account password?
After an unsuccessful password attempt, choose the password reset option. Answer the security questions set when the account was created and choose a new password. A previously created password reset disk is another option.
If neither is available, contact the device administrator. Online Microsoft recovery does not change a local account password.
Forgot your Windows PIN rather than your password?
A PIN differs from your Microsoft password. For a Microsoft account, choose “I forgot my PIN” on the sign-in screen if available, then verify your identity.
Otherwise, sign in with your password and change the PIN in account sign-in settings. If you have forgotten both, recover the password first.
Why is Windows asking for a BitLocker recovery key?
This is a separate 48-digit drive recovery key. Look in your Microsoft account, a saved copy or ask your organisation’s IT administrator. Match the key ID on screen to the saved key.
Without the correct key, recovery of encrypted files cannot be guaranteed. Read more about BitLocker recovery key requests.
Will resetting Windows delete your files?
Back up your files first and find the recovery key if the drive is encrypted. The option that keeps personal files still removes apps and settings. The option to remove everything also deletes personal data.
If important documents have no backup, discuss Windows system recovery before proceeding.
Still unable to sign in? Help in Vilnius
Tell us your computer model and the exact message on the screen. Let us know whether you need to preserve your files. We agree on the work and price after assessing the situation. Do not send passwords or verification codes through the enquiry form.
