A password reset disk is a USB flash drive that helps you reset your Windows local account password if you forget it. Learn how to create one in Windows 10 and Windows 11 with Control Panel.

Learn how to use a USB flash drive or a floppy disk to reset your password if you forget it. Follow the steps in the Forgotten Password Wizard and store the disk in a safe place.

If you want to change or reset the password you use to sign in to Windows, you have different options. This article outlines the different approaches you can take, whether you’re using a Microsoft account or a local account, logged in or at the sign-in screen.

A recovery drive lets you reset your Surface to its factory settings and can help you troubleshoot and fix problems with your Surface device. Windows comes with a built-in tool to create a USB recovery drive.

Instead of a password, you can use a security key to sign in to apps, websites, and, if you have a work or school account, even Windows. Use this section to change or reset your security key PIN. To learn more, see Sign in to your account with a security key .

Follow these steps to create a passkey from a Windows device: Open a website or app that supports passkeys. Create a passkey from your account settings. Choose where to save the passkey. By default, Windows offers to save the passkey locally if you're using Windows Hello.

Warning: when using a local account, it’s a good idea to create a password reset disk. If you don't do this and then forget your password, you won't be able to recover it.

If you’ve turned on two-step verification, but you didn’t get prompted for a security code when you signed in to your Xbox 360, this is because you must first set up an app password. You’ll use this app password instead of your Microsoft account password whenever you sign in.

If you forgot your work or school password, never got a password from your organization, or have been locked out of your account, you can use your security info and your mobile device to reset your work or school password.

Learn how to add user accounts in Windows 10 and Windows 11. With an account, each person has separate files, browser favorites, and a private desktop.