🔐 Forgot Your Windows Password? Keep Calm and Follow Me...Here’s a Simple Reset Trick Without Formatting

It happens all the time: you forget your Windows password, there’s no backup user, and no recovery disk in sight. Before jumping to a full format and losing your data, try this neat little trick using the Command Prompt in Recovery Mode. ⚙️

⚠️ Use this method only on authorized devices. This guide is intended for educational purposes and responsible use.

🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Reset a Forgotten Windows Password with Command Prompt

1. Boot into Recovery Mode

To begin the reset process, follow these steps:

• Hold Shift while clicking Restart

• Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt

Once you’re in the command prompt, type the following:

bash

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C: cd Windows\System32 ren utilman.exe utilman_backup.exe ren cmd.exe utilman.exe

This command temporarily replaces the Accessibility (Ease of Access) tool with the Command Prompt.

2. Reset the Password

Now restart your PC. On the login screen, click the Accessibility icon (bottom-right corner). A command window will open.
Type:

bash

control userpasswords2

• A user account settings window will open.

• Select your user account.

• Click Reset Password, and enter a new one.

👏 You're back in — no formatting, no data loss!

3. Restore the Original System Files

Now it’s time to reverse the file changes to keep things clean and secure. Open Command Prompt again (via the Accessibility icon), and run:

bash

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ren utilman.exe cmd.exe ren utilman_backup.exe utilman.exe

Everything is back to normal.

💡 Alternative Options

If the main method isn’t possible, here are some alternatives:

🧩 Use the Hidden Administrator Account

You can activate the built-in admin account:

bash

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net user administrator /active:yes

Then log in and reset your password from there.

🔧 Bootable Tools

Try password reset tools like:

• Hiren’s BootCD PE

• Sergei Strelec

• Lazesoft Recovery Suite
  

These tools offer powerful recovery features — great if you're locked out completely.

🏠 Who Is This For?

This method is perfect for home users or small business IT support without centralized management systems.

🏢 What About Enterprise Environments?

In larger companies, using centralized tools is the safest route:

• Microsoft Intune – Remote device management

• Microsoft Entra (Azure AD) – Identity and access control

• PowerShell or net user commands with domain permissions

These solutions ensure better security and compliance.

🔐 Important Security Notes

• If the drive is encrypted with BitLocker, this method won’t work.

• Always secure physical access (set BIOS password, enable Secure Boot).

• After resetting the password, help the user create a strong, unique password.

✅ Wrapping Up

This little trick can save your day — no reinstall, no panic. Just remember to use it responsibly and only when you’re authorized to do so.