How to create a password reset disk: Reset Windows Password

Getting locked out of your Windows account is frustrating — but preventable. One of the simplest ways to avoid this problem is by creating a password reset disk. It only takes a few minutes and could save you from losing access to your files later.

Here’s how to create a password reset disk in Windows, and how to use it if you ever forget your password.

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🛡 What Is a Password Reset Disk?

A password reset disk is a USB drive that lets you reset your Windows password if you forget it. It only works for local accounts — not Microsoft accounts or domain accounts.

⚠️ Important: You must create it before you forget your password. You can’t make one after you’re locked out.

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💽 What You’ll Need

• A USB flash drive (any size will do)
• A Windows local user account (this doesn’t work with Microsoft-linked accounts)

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🧰 Step-by-Step: Create a Password Reset Disk

1. Plug in Your USB Drive

Insert the USB flash drive you want to use.

2. Open the Password Reset Wizard

• Click the Start Menu
• Type “Create a password reset disk”
• Click on “Create a password reset disk” (it opens the Forgotten Password Wizard)

3. Follow the Wizard

• Click Next
• Select your USB drive from the dropdown
• Enter your current password when prompted
• Let Windows create the reset disk (it takes just a few seconds)

4. Finish and Store Safely

• When it’s done, remove the USB drive
• Label it clearly and store it somewhere secure (not with your laptop)

✅ Good news: You only need to create the disk once — even if you later change your password.

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🔓 How to Use the Reset Disk If You Forget Your Password

1. Plug in the USB drive
2. On the login screen, enter the wrong password once
3. You’ll see a link: “Reset password”
4. Click it and follow the wizard to set a new password using the reset disk

That’s it — you’re back in.

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🔄 For Microsoft Accounts

If you use a Microsoft account to sign in, this method won’t work. Instead:

• Visit: https://account.live.com/password/reset
• Follow Microsoft’s recovery process

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Final Thoughts

Creating a password reset disk is one of those things you’ll be glad you did before you need it. It’s fast, free, and can save you from a major headache down the road.

Set it up once, store it safely, and you’re covered.