How can I run my computer after I have forgotten my password?

Question

I have created a password protecting my account before running my computer but I have forgotten it and now I can't switch it on.

Answer 1

Try safe mode by clicking F8 b4 the windows start up screen with d blue blocks running accross. Have to type in d administrator pwd, if u dunno that, get d windows XP setup cd and reinstall windows. DO NOT DO A CLEAN OR FRESH INSTALL which is a format meaning u will delete everything. Just install it over d current one and u will be prompted to enter a new username and pwd. Laterz!

Answer 2

You don't give much info here. What is the Operating Sysem? Is it a BIOS password or the password for the operating system? Different types of passwords may require different methods to retrieve them if you forget them. For example with Windows NT, 2000 and probably XP you should be able to logon as a guest and in a command prompt window run the " net_user " command (no quotes) and then change the password that way. There are several other simple steps after that, but I wont get into those in an open forum. If it's a BIOS password, there is usually a jumper on the motherboard that can clear all info like that.
Then again, if its a real dinosaur and you're running windows 98, you don't even need a password. There is absolutely no security on a win 98 machine if you're physically sitting at it. Another option if it ISN"T a bios password, and you dont care about losing the data, is just format the thing and start all over.
Add some detail and I can probably help you alot more.
Good luck.

Answer 3

All thos above who metioned the F8 key are right, however if you passworded the master admin account that can make things fun if you forgot it. There is a way to remove that password too if your willing to do a repair install of your OS. I've personally tested this and it only works with an authentic copy of Windows (not an OEM version that would be supplied by Dell for example). It's actually a loop hole in the install program. HEre are the steps, print this off to follow them. there are 13 steps in total.



1. Place your Windows XP CD in your cd-rom and start your computer (it�s assumed here that your XP CD is bootable � as it should be - and that you have your bios set to boot from CD)

2. Keep your eye on the screen messages for booting to your cd Typically, it will be �Press any key to boot from cd�

3. Once you get in, the first screen will indicate that Setup is inspecting your system and loading files.

4. When you get to the Welcome to Setup screen, press ENTER to Setup Windows now

5. The Licensing Agreement comes next - Press F8 to accept it.

6. The next screen is the Setup screen which gives you the option to do a Repair.

It should read something like �If one of the following Windows XP installations is damaged, Setup can try to repair it�

Use the up and down arrow keys to select your XP installation (if you only have one, it should already be selected) and press R to begin the Repair process.

7. Let the Repair run. Setup will now check your disks and then start copying files which can take several minutes.

8. Shortly after the Copying Files stage, you will be required to reboot. (this will happen automatically � you will see a progress bar stating �Your computer will reboot in 15 seconds�

9. During the reboot, do not make the mistake of �pressing any key� to boot from the CD again! Setup will resume automatically with the standard billboard screens and you will notice Installing Windows is highlighted.

10. Keep your eye on the lower left hand side of the screen and when you see the Installing Devices progress bar, press SHIFT + F10. This is the security hole! A command console will now open up giving you the potential for wide access to your system.

11. At the prompt, type NUSRMGR.CPL and press Enter. Voila! You have just gained graphical access to your User Accounts in the Control Panel.

12. Now simply pick the account you need to change and remove or change your password as you prefer. If you want to log on without having to enter your new password, you can type control userpasswords2 at the prompt and choose to log on without being asked for password. After you�ve made your changes close the windows, exit the command box and continue on with the Repair (have your Product key handy).

13. Once the Repair is done, you will be able to log on with your new password (or without a password if you chose not to use one or if you chose not to be asked for a password). Your programs and personalized settings should remain intact.


This will NOT mess up your file structure or delete ANYTHING! (unless you do it wrong) I've included the site address so you can check it out there as well. Use this ONLY in the case of the MASTER admin acount (that you acces using F8) is lost.

Answer 4

You do not say if this is a windows operating system. If it is, you should be able during boot up to hold down the delete key (xp and I think 98.. for some older versions I think it was f8) which should take you into the computer set up options. This will allow you to get rid of a system password or change it to something perhaps you will remember.

Answer 5

If your talking about a winxp password, you can try going into the administrator account via safemode and delete the password of your account under users in the control panel. I did that once and it worked for me.

Answer 6

there is software out there that can restore lost passwords to a system.

just do a search for forgot password with your operating system for example search on:
"forgot password windows xp"

you should be able to find what you need quickly enough.

Answer 7

if its a major computer manuf. like dell, reboot the pc into safe mode (by hitting F8 after post) and login using Administrator and a blank password.

from there you can change your password on your account from computer management.

Answer 8

Just create one or go to I forgot my password and they will email it to you

Answer 9

well.. there are programs that can get you past the log in screen and into windows, and then you can change your password. go to http://www.download.com and search for them, then just put in a CD, and while booting, put the CD in, and it will get you past the log in screen.

good luck.

Answer 10

How does everyone forget a password. Do you forget your birthday.