So, you tried logging into your PC, and no matter how many times you enter the password, it’s not working. Is Caps Lock off? It most likely is, so let’s face it — you simply forgot the password. Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us. But resetting your password on Windows 7 is relatively easy, and lucky for you, there are a few different ways to do it.
Important note: Starting January 2020, Microsoft discontinued providing support for Windows 7. To ensure the continued security and smooth functioning of your device, we recommend upgrading to Windows 10 or Windows 11. By doing so, you will have access to the latest security updates and technical assistance to keep your device up-to-date and protected from potential threats.
Reset your Windows 7 password using Command Prompt
In case your Windows 7 password slipped your mind, don’t fret. There's a quick, easy, and reliable solution at hand — the Command Prompt. However, please note that the Command Prompt method works only if you have the access of another administrator account on the computer. It’s a clear and straightforward procedure. Here’s how you can do it:
Log in and click the Start button.
Select “All programs,” click “Accessories,” and then right-click on “Command Prompt.”
Select “Run as administrator.”
In the Command Prompt, type
net userand hit the “Enter” key. You will see all the accounts on this computer.Type
net user username password, where username is the account you want to reset, and password is the new password you want to use. For example, if your account name is “MillenniumFalcon” and you want your new password to be “youshallnotpassm8”, type in “net user MillenniumFalcon youshallnotpassm8.”
That’s it. You can now log in with the new password.
Reset your Windows 7 password with the reset disk
This method only works if you create a reset disk before forgetting your password.
First, insert the USB flash drive with your reset disk. After you type in the wrong password, you will see a “Reset password” option — click on it.
The Password Reset Wizard will appear. Click “Next.”
Go to the drop-down menu, select the password reset disk, and click “Next.”
Enter your new password and a hint. Click “Next,” then “Finish.”
Log in with your new password.
If you haven't created a password reset disk yet, don't worry! Check out our article on how to create a Windows password reset disk so you can be prepared in case you forget your password in the future.
Reset your Windows 7 password with the installation CD
In case you don’t have a reset disk, and don’t have access to another administrator account, the Windows 7 installation CD can come in handy. If you still have the installation CD you can leverage certain system features and use the Command Prompt to reset your Windows 7 password without much hassle. Here’s how:
Insert the CD and restart your PC. Watch for the “Press any key to boot from CD or DVD…” message and press a key when it comes up.
When it loads and the “Install Windows” screen shows up, press the Shift+F10 keys. This will open the Command Prompt window.
Enter these commands:
move c:\windows\system32\sethc.exe c:\windows\system32\sethc.exe.bakc:\windows\system32\cmd.exe c:\windows\system32\sethc.exePress “Enter” after each one.
Type in
wpeutil rebootto restart your computer. Let it load as usual.When you see the login screen, press the Shift key five times. A Command Prompt window will show up, and you can create a new password. Follow the instructions from step 4 of the “Reset your Windows 7 password using Command Prompt” section.
Reset your Windows 7 password without a disk
If you find yourself in a situation where traditional solutions don't seem to work, don't lose hope. There's a robust tool available: PCUnlocker. Designed to operate efficiently from a USB flash drive, this program can be your way out of a tight spot. However, for the initial setup, you might need to momentarily access another computer, perhaps a friend's or colleague's.
Download PCUnlocker and software that loads ISO files to USB drives (try Rufus or UNetbootin). Insert your USB drive and burn the PCUnlocker ISO file into it.
When it’s done, insert the USB drive into your locked computer and restart. Once again, make sure to catch the “Press any key to boot from CD or DVD…” message and press a key when it comes up.
After it loads, you will see a PCUnlocker screen listing all the accounts on your computer. Select the “Administrator” account and click on the “Reset password” button at the bottom of the screen.
Press the Restart button, and after your PC reloads, you will be able to log in without a password.
How to change your Windows 7 password
If you know your current Windows 7 password and want to change it to something else, you can do so easily. Follow these steps:
Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete on your keyboard and select “Change a password” from the menu.
Enter your current password and then enter your new password twice.
Click “Change password” to save your new password.
How to avoid forgetting your password in the future
A good password hint would help, but if it’s too good, it might be easy for someone else to guess. And even if you don’t use that PC very often, or you don’t store anything valuable on it, you should never write a password down. It’s not safe and too easy to lose or accidentally throw away.
Instead, use a password manager such as NordPass. NordPass provides a single secure place to store your passwords and other sensitive information such as payment card details, personal information, and secure notes. But NordPass not only organizes your passwords it also ensures their easy accessibility across multiple devices, even when you’re offline.
With NordPass you no longer will need to come up with passwords that adhere to the ever-increasing number of password rules thanks to the built-in Password Generator. All it takes is a few clicks and the Password Generator comes up with strong and unique passwords instantly.
Embrace the peace of mind and secure online experience that comes with NordPass. But don’t just take our word for it — try for yourself.