It can be very annoying to forget your Microsoft account password, particularly if you need to access critical files, emails, or applications. Whether you’ve lost access due to a forgotten password or security settings, this guide will walk you through different ways to recover your Microsoft account password in Windows.
Why You Can’t Access Your Microsoft Account
There are several reasons why you may be unable to log in:
- Forgotten password – The most common reason for login failures.
- Security updates – Microsoft may temporarily lock your account if suspicious activity is detected.
- Incorrect recovery information—If your recovery email or phone number is outdated, resetting the password can be difficult.
- Two-factor authentication issues – If enabled, you need access to your second authentication method.
Key Takeaway: Before attempting recovery, determine why you lost access to your Microsoft account. Whether it’s a forgotten password, security lockout, or outdated recovery options, understanding the cause will help you find the best solution.
Resetting Your Microsoft Account Password Online
The easiest way to recover your password is through Microsoft’s official reset tool:
- Go to Microsoft’s password reset page.
- Enter your Skype name, phone number, or email address.
- Choose a recovery method (email, text, or Microsoft Authenticator).
- Enter the verification code sent using your selected method.
- Set a new password and confirm.
Tip: If you don’t receive the security code, check your spam folder or try another recovery option.
Key Takeaway: Resetting your Microsoft account password is a straightforward process using Microsoft’s online password reset tool. Always ensure your recovery options are up to date to make the process smoother in the future.
Recovering Your Microsoft Account Without Access to Email or Phone
If you no longer have access to your registered email or phone number, recovering your Microsoft account can be more challenging. However, Microsoft provides an alternative method using the account recovery form. Follow these steps to regain access.
Using the Microsoft Account Recovery Form
- Go to Microsoft’s account recovery page by visiting this link.
- Enter the email, Skype ID, or username associated with your Microsoft account.
- Provide an alternative email address where Microsoft can contact you about your recovery request.
- Verify that you are not a bot by completing the CAPTCHA.
- Click Next to proceed to the recovery questionnaire.
Providing Account Information
To verify your identity, Microsoft will ask for details related to your account. The more accurate information you provide, the higher your chances of recovery.
- Enter any previous passwords you remember. Even an old password can help verify ownership.
- Provide details about your recent Microsoft activity, such as the subject lines of recent emails or contacts you’ve interacted with.
- If your account is linked to Xbox, Outlook, or OneDrive, mention any relevant account details.
- Answer security questions if prompted.
- Click Submit once you’ve entered as much information as possible.
Waiting for Microsoft’s Response
- After submitting the form, Microsoft will review your request.
- If enough information is provided, you will receive a password reset link at the alternative email address.
- You can try again with more information or get in touch with Microsoft Support for more help if your request is rejected.
Alternative Recovery Methods
If the recovery form does not work, try these additional steps:
- Check if you are still logged into your Microsoft account on another device, such as a phone or tablet. If so, you may be able to update your recovery information.
- If you have a Windows PC linked to your Microsoft account, try resetting the password from the login screen.
- Contact Microsoft Support and provide as much information as possible about your account.
Preventing Future Recovery Issues
- Update your recovery phone number and email regularly to ensure they remain accessible.
- Enable two-factor authentication and store backup codes in a secure location.
- Use a password manager to keep track of login credentials and recovery details.
Key Takeaway: To recover a Microsoft account without access to email or phone, you must complete the account recovery form with as much accurate information as possible. Keeping recovery options updated can prevent future access issues.
Using Windows Password Reset Options
If you are locked out of your Windows device and cannot reset your Microsoft account password online, there are several built-in Windows password reset options you can try. These methods work depending on whether you are using a Microsoft account or a local account to sign in to Windows.
Resetting a Microsoft Account Password from the Windows Login Screen
If your Windows device is connected to a Microsoft account, you can reset the password directly from the login screen.
- On the Windows sign-in screen, select “I forgot my password.”
- Enter the Microsoft account email you use to log in.
- Use your recovery email, phone number, or security questions as directed to confirm your identity.
- After verification, create a new password and confirm it.
- Sign in with the new password once the reset is complete.
If you do not have access to your recovery options, you may need to use the Microsoft account recovery form instead.
Resetting a Local Account Password in Windows
The reset process is different if you use a local account (not a Microsoft account) to sign in to Windows.
Using Security Questions (Windows 10 & 11)
- On the login screen, enter an incorrect password and press Enter until you see the Reset password option.
- Respond to the security questions that were created when you created the account.
- If your answers are correct, you will be prompted to create a new password.
- Once updated, log in with the new password.
Resetting a Local Password Using Another Administrator Account
If another administrator account exists on your PC, it can be used to reset your password.
- Log into the administrator account.
- Select User Accounts > Manage Another Account after launching the Control Panel.
- Select the locked account and choose Change Password.
- Set a new password and save the changes.
- Log in to the locked account using the new password.
Resetting Windows Password Using a Password Reset Disk
You can access your account again by using the password reset disk you created before to losing it.
- Put the disk containing the password reset into your computer.
- On the Windows login screen, type an erroneous password and press Enter until the Reset password option shows up.
- Select Use password reset disk, then follow the instructions to set a new password.
- Once completed, log in using the new password.
This method only works if you previously created a password reset disk. If not, you will need to try other options.
Resetting Windows Using Safe Mode and Command Prompt
If no other options work, you can use Safe Mode with Command Prompt to reset the password.
- Restart your PC and repeatedly press F8 (Windows 7) or Shift + Restart (Windows 10 & 11) to enter Advanced Startup Options.
- Select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings and enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
- In the Command Prompt window, type:
- net user username new password
- (Substitute “newpassword” with your new password and “username” with the name of your real account.)
- Press Enter, then restart your PC and log in with the new password.
This method requires administrator privileges, so it may not work in all cases.
Resetting Your PC as a Last Resort
If none of the above methods work, you may need to reset your PC. This should be a last resort, as it may delete some files and applications.
- On the Windows sign-in screen, select “Restart” while holding Shift to enter Advanced Startup.
- Navigate to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Choose to Keep my files to retain personal data or Remove everything for a full reset.
- To finish the reset, adhere to the on-screen directions.
Key Takeaway: Windows offers multiple ways to reset your password, whether you’re using a Microsoft account or a local account. Using password recovery options, security questions, or administrator tools can help regain access. If all else fails, resetting the PC may be necessary. Keeping a password manager and recovery options up to date can prevent future lockouts.
Preventing Future Microsoft Account Lockouts
To avoid password recovery issues in the future:
- Update recovery information – Ensure your phone number and email are up to date.
- Use a password manager – Store your Microsoft password securely.
- Enable two-factor authentication – Adds extra security to your account.
- Create a recovery code – A backup option in case you lose access to your account.
Conclusion
Recovering a Microsoft account password in Windows is simple if you follow the right steps. Whether resetting online, using recovery options, or troubleshooting login issues, Microsoft provides multiple ways to regain access. Set up recovery methods in advance to prevent future lockouts.
FAQs
What if I don’t receive the Microsoft password reset email?
Try a different recovery method, such as SMS verification, or look in your spam folder.
Can I reset my Microsoft password without a phone number?
Yes, use your recovery email or the account recovery form.
How long does Microsoft take to recover an account?
It usually takes a few minutes, but account recovery requests can take up to 24 hours.
Can I reset my Microsoft password from another device?
Yes, visit Microsoft’s password reset page from any device with internet access.
What should I do if I forget my local Windows account password?
Try logging in with a Microsoft account or reset the PC if necessary.