Locked out of your own Windows 11 PC? You can usually reset the password from the sign-in screen without logging in first. The method depends on your account type: a Microsoft account resets online, and a local account uses the security questions or a password reset disk you set up earlier. This guide covers only supported recovery for your own account. It does not cover tricks that swap system files in recovery mode to open a command prompt at the sign-in screen. Those bypass Windows security, can break encryption and may violate your workplace or school policy.
Quick Answer
On the sign-in screen, select I forgot my password (Microsoft account) or enter a wrong password and select Reset password (local account). Then verify your identity or answer your security questions and set a new password.
How to Reset a Forgotten Windows 11 Password
- Check the account type shown on the sign-in screen. An email address under your name means a Microsoft account; just a name usually means a local account.
- Microsoft account: select I forgot my password, confirm the email or phone, enter the code Microsoft sends, and choose a new password. If the link is missing, choose Sign-in options, then Web sign-in, and use Forgot my password there.
- No access to the PC at all? Reset a Microsoft account password from any browser at the Microsoft account password reset page, then sign in on the PC with the new password while it is online.
- Local account: enter any password, select OK, then Reset password, and answer the security questions you set up when you created the account.
- If you made a password reset disk (a USB drive), choose Use a password reset disk instead and follow the prompts.
- If another administrator account on the same PC works, sign in with it and reset your password from the account settings or Computer Management.
Which Recovery Option Fits
| Your situation | Supported option |
|---|---|
| Microsoft account | I forgot my password, or reset online from another device |
| Local account with security questions | Reset password link on the sign-in screen |
| Local account with a reset disk | Use a password reset disk |
| Another admin account on the PC | Reset the password from that account |
| Work or school account | Contact your IT department or use your organization’s reset portal |
| None of the above | Reset this PC (removes your files and apps) |
Troubleshooting
- No Reset password link: the account has no security questions or it is a Microsoft account. Use the Microsoft account steps instead.
- Forgot only your PIN? Select I forgot my PIN; you will need your account password. See how to change your PIN on Windows 11.
- If nothing works, Microsoft says the only remaining option is to reset the device: hold Shift while selecting Restart on the sign-in screen, then Troubleshoot, Reset this PC, Remove everything. This erases your files, so it is a last resort. If the drive uses BitLocker, you may also need your BitLocker recovery key.
- Microsoft support cannot retrieve or bypass a forgotten password for you, and no legitimate tool shows an existing Windows password. Read whether you can find an administrator password for more on why.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reset my Windows 11 password without logging in?
Yes, for your own account. Microsoft accounts reset from the sign-in screen or online, and local accounts use security questions or a reset disk.
What if I use a local account with no security questions?
Sign in with another administrator account if one exists. Otherwise the supported route is to reset the PC, which removes your data.
How do I avoid this next time?
Keep your Microsoft account recovery email and phone up to date, add security questions to local accounts, or create a password reset disk. Once you are back in, change your password to something you will remember.
Is it safe to use password cracking or bypass tools?
We do not recommend them. They often come from untrusted sources, can damage Windows or disable encryption, and using them on a device you do not own may be illegal.
Summary
- Identify your account type.
- Microsoft account: I forgot my password or reset online.
- Local account: Reset password and security questions, or a reset disk.
- Use another admin account if you have one.
- Reset the PC only as a last resort.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.