While it’s harmless and works very well, it’s not exactly Microsoft-sanctioned.
Ideally, you’d use a Windows 8 password reset disk to reset your Windows 8 password.
We recommend you make one as soon as you get back in (see Step 10 below).
Lifewire / Derek Abella
The process can take up to an hour.
The Windows 8 password reset trick below only works if you’re using a local account.
If you use an email address to access to Windows 8 then you’re not using a local account.
If so, follow ourHow to Reset Your Microsoft Account Passwordtutorial.
Access Advanced Startup Options.
SelectTroubleshoot, thenAdvanced options, and finallyCommand Prompt.
key in the followingcommandintoCommand Prompt:
…and then pressEnter.
You should see a1 file(s) copiedconfirmation.
Now jot down this command, again followed byEnter:
Answer withYorYesto question about theoverwriteof theutilman.exefile.
You should now see another file copy confirmation.
Remove any flash drives or discs that you may havebootedfrom in Step 1 and thenrestart your machine.
To restart from the ASO menu, exit Command Prompt and then chooseTurn off your PC.
Press thepower buttonwhen it’s off to turn it back on.
Command Prompt should open.
Now that you have access to acommand line, you could reset your Windows 8 password.
Lifewire / Derek Abella
See theImportantcall-out in the introduction at the top of this page for more on that.
get in with the new password you set in Step 7!
Finally, you should reverse the hack that makes this password reset trick work in Windows 8.
To do that, repeat Steps 1 & 2 above.
What if you need access to Ease of Access from the login screen someday?
Your password should now be reset.
Other methods also exist to recover or reset a forgotten Windows 8 password, like making an educated guess.
I Forgot My Windows 8 Password!for the full list of ideas.
