Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

Question

Forgot Admin Password

Mar 12, 2018 4:36PM PDT
My question: Is there a way to reset my Admin password without a password reset disk? It seems the password I have used as my Admin password on this computer since I got it, is not the correct one. If it wasn't the Admins account I wouldn't care, I'd just make another user account.
Please Help!!!!

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Clarification Request
Have you tried Safe Mode yet?
Mar 12, 2018 6:15PM PDT

If so, was there a default "Admin" account?

- Collapse -
Answer
Please give PC details.
Mar 12, 2018 4:39PM PDT

Post was last edited on March 12, 2018 4:42 PM PDT

- Collapse -
Answer
Just a few weeks ago I had to work around this.
Mar 12, 2018 5:51PM PDT
- Collapse -
Answer
Using bootable CD
Mar 13, 2018 6:25AM PDT

If you can still get in to Windows as admin, you can use John the Ripper, Cain & Abel and other tools to crack your password.
https://www.lifewire.com/free-windows-password-recovery-tools-2626179

When you're locked out of admin account at all, boot your system from bootable CDs like Trinity Rescue Kit, which can help you remove the password with ease.
https://www.top-password.com/knowledge/reset-my-windows-password-forgot.html

Of course, reinstalling is always good option if you don't care about the data on your PC.