Reset your Windows local account password

Use the following instructions to reset your local account password. Your local account signs you in on your device offline, but it doesn't link to your other devices. For a more complete experience, we recommend you sign in with a Microsoft account to access services like Outlook, Skype, and OneDrive on any of your devices. If you forgot your Windows 10 password, the easiest way to get back into your account is to reset the password for your Microsoft account. 

Reset local account password for Windows 10, version 1803 and beyond

If you added security questions when you set up your local account for Windows 10, then you have at least version 1803 and you can answer security questions to sign back in.

After you've entered an incorrect password:

1. Select the Reset password link on the sign-in screen. If you use a PIN instead, see PIN sign-in issues. If you're using a work device that's on a network, you may not see an option to reset your password or PIN. In that case, contact your administrator.

2. Answer your security questions.

3. Enter a new password.

4. Sign in as usual with the new password.

Reset local account password for Windows 10, before version 1803

For versions of Windows 10 earlier than 1803, local account passwords can't be reset because there are no security questions. You can reset your device to choose a new password, however this option will permanently delete your data, programs, and settings. If you've backed up your files you'll be able to restore your deleted files. For more information, see Recovery options in Windows. 

To reset your device, which will delete data, programs, and settings:

1. Press the Shift key while you select the Power  button > Restart in the lower-right corner of the screen.

2. On the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.

3. Select Remove everything.