How to Reset the Windows Vista Operating System Password

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By Candace Benson
eHow Contributing Writer

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Microsoft gives users two simple means of resetting a password in Windows Vista. We will cover these two options---changing the password via an administrator account and changing it through the Vista password reset disk. If you need assistance creating a password reset disk, please see the "Tips" section below. If you have neither access to an alternate administrator account or to a password reset disk, please see the 4sysops article linked in the "Resources" section.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Two or more administrator-level accounts (Option 1)
Password reset disk (Option 2)

Resetting Your Password Via an Administrator Account

Step 1

Log on to an alternate administrator account (not your regular administrator accout) on the computer. Click on the "Start" button, then choose "Control Panel" and then "User Accounts."
Step 2

Choose "Manage another account." You should see the account for which you need to reset the password. Click on it.
Step 3

Select "Change password." Type in the new password twice and add a password hint that will help you remember your password. Click on the "Change password" button. You have now reset your password.

Resetting Your Password Via a Password Reset Disc

Step 1

Type in any password at the logon screen. Windows will alert you that the password is incorrect. Click on OK. You should now see the "Reset password" option. Click it.
Step 2

Insert your Windows reset disk or flash drive. The Password Reset wizard will appear. Click on "Next," then select the drive that contains the reset media.
Step 3

Type in your new password twice and add a password hint that will help you remember the password. Click on "Next," then "Finish." You have now reset your password.