The fastest way depends on which device you're locked out of

If you've forgotten your administrator password on Windows, you can reset it using another admin account, a password reset disk you created earlier, or your Microsoft account. On a Mac, you can use your Apple ID, another admin account, or Recovery Mode. The method that works fastest for you depends on what you set up before you got locked out — and whether you have a second admin account on the device.

The instructions below walk through each path in order of speed. Start with the one that matches what you have access to right now.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows lets you reset an admin password using another admin account, a Microsoft account, or a password reset disk created before you forgot the password.
  • Mac users can reset an admin password through Recovery Mode, using an Apple ID, or by using another admin account on the same device.
  • If you have no other admin account and no backup method, you will need to contact the device manufacturer or a local technician.
  • Creating a password reset disk or recovery key after you regain access prevents this problem from happening again.
  • Never share your administrator password with others, and store recovery codes in a safe place separate from your device.

Windows: resetting with another admin account

If someone else on your household or workplace network has an admin account on the same Windows computer, they can reset your password without erasing your files. Ask them to log in with their account, then follow these steps.

Open Settings, then select Accounts. Choose Other people, then select the account you need to reset. Click Reset password. Windows will ask for the admin account password — the person logged in should enter theirs. Type a new password you will remember, then click Next. Your account is now accessible with the new password, and all your files remain intact.

This method works on Windows 10 and Windows 11. It requires that the other person have admin rights on that specific computer.

Windows: using your Microsoft account to reset

If you set up your Windows account using a Microsoft email address (outlook.com, hotmail.com, or any email linked to a Microsoft account), you can reset your password online without touching the computer.

From any device with internet access, go to account.microsoft.com and select Sign in. Choose I forgot my password. Enter your Microsoft email address. Microsoft will send a code to your recovery email or phone number — check whichever you set up during account creation. Enter that code, then create a new password. Once you've changed it on Microsoft's website, you can use that new password to log into your Windows computer.

This method works only if you remember your Microsoft email address and have access to the recovery email or phone number you registered with Microsoft. If you don't remember either, you'll need to contact Microsoft support or use a different method.

Windows: using a password reset disk

If you created a password reset disk before you forgot your password, you can use it now. Insert the USB drive or disk into your computer. At the Windows login screen, click Reset password. Windows will detect your reset disk and walk you through creating a new password.

This method only works if the disk exists and is readable. If you never created one, this option is not available to you.

Mac: resetting through Recovery Mode with your Apple ID

On a Mac, the fastest path is usually Recovery Mode. Shut down your Mac completely. Turn it back on and when ready hold Command + R until you see the Apple logo. This boots into Recovery Mode.

Select Utilities from the menu bar, then choose Reset Password. Select your user account from the list. Click Next. You'll see a prompt to reset using your Apple ID — if you remember the Apple ID password associated with your account, enter it here. Create a new administrator password, then click Save. Restart your Mac and log in with your new password.

This method requires that you remember your Apple ID and password. If you don't, you can reset your Apple ID password at iforgot.apple.com before attempting this step.

Mac: resetting with another admin account

If another person on your Mac has an admin account, they can reset your password. Have them log in with their account. Open System Settings, then select General. Click Users & Groups (or Accounts, depending on your macOS version). Select your account from the list. Click the Reset Password button. They'll enter their admin password, then create a new password for your account.

Your files remain untouched, and you can log in when ready with the new password.

What to do if you have no backup method

If you have no other admin account, no recovery disk, and no access to your Microsoft or Apple ID, you cannot reset the password yourself. At this point, contact the device manufacturer's support line — Apple or Microsoft — and explain that you're locked out of your own device. They may ask you to prove ownership by providing the serial number, proof of purchase, or other information.

Alternatively, take the computer to a local repair shop. They have tools to reset passwords on locked devices, though this usually costs between $50 and $150 depending on the shop and device type. Some shops can do it the same day.

Preventing this from happening again

Once you regain access, create a password reset disk or recovery key when ready. On Windows, open Settings, select Accounts, then choose Password options. Click Create a password reset disk and follow the prompts. Store the disk somewhere safe but separate from your computer — a drawer at home, not next to your desk.

On Mac, open System Settings, select General, then Users & Groups. Select your account and click Reset Password Options. Follow the prompts to create a recovery key. Write this key down and store it in a safe place — a safe, a locked drawer, or with a trusted family member.

You should also make sure you remember your Microsoft or Apple ID password, or write it down and store it securely. These are your lifeline if you forget your device password.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reset the password without losing my files?

Yes, if you use another admin account, your Microsoft account, or your Apple ID to reset. These methods preserve all your files and settings. The only method that erases files is a complete factory reset, which you should only do as a last resort.

What if I don't remember my Microsoft or Apple ID password either?

Go to account.microsoft.com or iforgot.apple.com and reset your Microsoft or Apple ID password using your recovery email or phone number. Once you've reset that, you can use it to reset your device password. If you don't have access to your recovery email or phone, contact Microsoft or Apple support with proof of ownership.

How long does it take to reset a password?

If you use another admin account or a password reset disk, it takes about five minutes. If you use your Microsoft or Apple ID, it depends on how quickly you receive the recovery code — usually a few minutes. If you need to contact the manufacturer or visit a repair shop, allow one to three business days.

Is there a way to reset the password without the original email address?

Not through Microsoft or Apple directly. You would need to use another admin account on the device, a password reset disk, or contact the manufacturer with proof of ownership. This is why storing recovery information separately from your device is important.

Can I reset an administrator password on someone else's computer?

Not without their permission and their admin password or recovery information. These protections exist to prevent unauthorized access. If you need to help someone else, ask them for their Microsoft or Apple ID password, or have them create a password reset disk while they still have access.