How to Change the Password on a Laptop

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Your laptop administrator password is a lockdown security code that prevents unauthorized users from logging on to your operating system. When you start your computer, the operating system prompts you to enter the password so that you can make changes to your system. To ensure that you continue to protect your privacy, it is important to change your administrator password often. This is especially helpful if you suspect that someone knows your current password.

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Windows Vista Laptops

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Step 1

Logon to Windows Vista using your current administrator password. You can only change your password on an administrator account.

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Step 2

Press CTR-ALT-DELETE simultaneously. Click the "Change a Password" link. This brings you to the user accounts screen.

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Step 3

Type your current administrator password. Type the new password and type it again to confirm. Click "OK" to save the changes. Restart your computer and test your new administrator password.

Mac Laptops

Step 1

Logon to your Mac laptop using your current administrator password. You can only change your password on an administrator account.

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Step 2

Click the "Apple" logo on the top left corner and click "System Preferences". Click "Accounts". Click the "Password" button.

Step 3

Click your administrator account and click "Change Password". Type your current administrator password and type the new password that you want to use. Type the new password again to confirm. When you finish, click "Change Password" to enable the new password. Restart your computer and test your new administrator password.

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Windows XP Laptops

Step 1

Logon to Windows XP using your current administrator password. You can only change your password on an administrator account.

Step 2

Click the Windows "Start" menu and click "Control Panel". Double-click "User Accounts". Click your administrator account and click "Change my password".

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Step 3

Type your current administrator password and type the new password that you want to use. Type the new password again to confirm. Type a password hint if you want and click "Change Password". Restart your computer and test your new administrator password.

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