How to Change an Administative Password

Change your administrator login password.

Microsoft Windows has a security feature that allows the administrator, or main user, of the computer to create an administrator password. Whenever the administrator logs off, a password is required to log back on. This protects the administrator's files and folders and prevents others from making administrative changes to the system. If security is breached, change your administrator password by simply logging on to your account. Windows XP, Vista and 7 have similar steps for changing the administrator password.

Instructions

Windows 7 and Vista

1. Log into the administrator account by inputting your current password.

2. Click on the "Start" button in the lower left corner of the screen. The Start button in Windows 7 and Vista is a circle with the Windows logo in it.

3. Go to "Control Panel," then select "User Accounts and Family Safety."

4. Select "Change your Windows password." Type in your current password in the designated spot, then enter the new password. Confirm the new password by typing it again in the designated spot. Type a password hint if desired and hit "Change Password."

Windows XP

1. Log into the administrator account. Make sure to enter your current password.

2. Click on the "Start" button in the lower left corner, then navigate to "Control Panel."

3. Select "User Accounts," then choose "Change an Account."

4. Select the computer administrator icon. Hit "Change my password."

5. Enter the current password in the designated spot. Type in the new password, then type it in again to confirm. Click "Change Password."

References

• TechRepublic: Windows 7 Walkthrough--User Accounts and Family Safety Control Panel
• Ivertech: How to Turn Off User Account Control (UAC) on Windows Vista