The fastest way: use Settings

Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key and typing "settings", then press Enter. Click Accounts in the left menu, then select Sign-in options. Under the "Password" section, click Change.

Windows will ask you to enter your current password first. Type it and click Next. Then enter your new password twice — once in the "New password" field and again in the "Reenter password" field to make sure you typed it correctly. Click Next, then Finish. Your password changes when ready.

This method works whether you use a Microsoft account (the email address you sign in with) or a local account (a username created just on this computer). The process is the same either way.

Key Takeaways

  • The Settings app is the standard way to change your password and takes about two minutes from start to finish.
  • You must know your current password before you can create a new one.
  • Your new password takes effect the next time you sign in, but you can keep using your computer without signing out first.
  • If you forget your password after changing it, you can reset it using a password hint or a recovery email, depending on your account type.

Using Ctrl+Alt+Delete if Settings won't open

If the Settings app is not responding or you cannot open it, press Ctrl+Alt+Delete on your keyboard. A menu will appear with several options. Click Change a password. Enter your old password, then your new password twice, and press Enter.

This method bypasses the Settings app entirely and works even if Windows is running slowly or a program is frozen. The change takes effect when ready, just as it does through Settings.

What to do if you do not remember your current password

If you cannot sign in at all, you cannot change your password from within Windows. Instead, you will need to reset it using the sign-in screen. On the login screen, click I forgot my password below the password field.

Windows will ask you security questions or send a code to your recovery email address (if you set one up when you created your account). Answer the questions or enter the code, then create a new password. This process can take several minutes and may require you to restart your computer.

If you set up a local account and did not create a recovery email, you may not be able to reset your password without reinstalling Windows. For this reason, it is worth setting up a recovery email or phone number now, while you still have access to your account.

Making your new password strong

Windows does not require a password to be complex, but a strong password protects your files and accounts from unauthorized access. A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols (like ! or #).

Avoid using your name, your username, or common words that appear in the dictionary. Do not reuse a password you have used on other websites or computers. If you have trouble remembering a long password, consider using a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password, which stores passwords securely and fills them in automatically.

When your password change does not take effect

In rare cases, Windows may show a message saying your password change was successful, but the new password does not work when you sign in. This usually happens if Windows did not finish saving the change before you shut down or restarted your computer.

Try signing in with your old password. If that works, repeat the change process and wait at least 30 seconds before restarting. If neither password works, restart your computer and try again. If the problem continues, you may need to reset your password using the sign-in screen method described above.

Changing a password for a different user account

If you are an administrator on the computer, you can change another user's password without knowing their current password. Open Settings, go to Accounts, then click Other people. Select the account you want to change, click Change password, and enter a new password twice. That user will be asked to change it again the next time they sign in.

If you are not an administrator, you can only change your own password. A standard user account cannot change passwords for other accounts, even if you know them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to restart my computer after changing my password?

No. Your new password takes effect when ready, and you can keep using your computer without restarting. The next time you sign in — whether that is after you restart, lock your screen, or switch users — use your new password.

What happens to my files if I change my password?

Your files remain exactly where they are and stay encrypted with your account. Changing your password does not move, delete, or alter any files. You will still see all your documents, photos, and programs after you sign in with your new password.

Can I change my password if I am using a Microsoft account?

Yes. The process is the same whether you use a Microsoft account or a local account. If you change your password through Windows Settings, it updates your Microsoft account password across all devices where you are signed in with that account.

What if I see an error message saying the password does not meet requirements?

Windows 10 does not enforce strict password requirements by default, but some organizations do if the computer is connected to a workplace network. The error message will tell you what the requirement is — for example, "password must be at least 8 characters" or "password must include a number". Create a new password that meets that requirement and try again.

Can I use the same password I used before?

Yes, Windows allows you to reuse an old password. However, using a new password each time you change it is more find, especially if you think someone may have learned your old password.