Windows 10: How to Change the Password

Changing your Windows 10 password regularly is an important part of keeping your device and data secure. Here is a step-by-step guide to changing your Windows 10 password, whether you use a Microsoft account or a local account.

Prerequisites

Before changing your password, make sure:

• You are signed into the account whose password you want to change
• You know the current password for the account
• Your device is connected to the internet (required for Microsoft accounts)

Change the Password for a Microsoft Account

If you sign into Windows 10 using a Microsoft account, here are the steps to change your password:

1. Open the Start Menu and click on the Settings icon
2. Click on Accounts
3. In the left pane, click on Sign-in options
4. Under the “Password” section, click on Change
5. Enter your current password and click Next
6. Enter your new password and click Next
   • Your new password must meet the following complexity requirements:
     • At least 8 characters long
     • Contains uppercase and lowercase letters
     • Contains at least one number or symbol
7. Confirm your new password and click Finish

Your password will now be updated across all Microsoft services connected to that account.

Change the Password for a Local Account

If you sign into Windows 10 using a local account instead of a Microsoft account, use these steps:

1. Open the Start Menu and click on the Settings icon
2. Click on Accounts
3. In the left pane, under “Sign-in options”, click on Password
4. Click on Change under the password field
5. Enter your current password and click Next
6. Enter your new password and click Next
   • There are no complexity requirements for local account passwords
7. Confirm your new password and click Finish

Your local account password will now be updated.

Reset Your Password from Sign-In Screen

If you enter the wrong password several times when signing into Windows 10, you will get locked out of your account. At the sign-in screen, you can reset your password with these steps:

For Microsoft Accounts

1. Click on Reset password below your account name
2. Choose how you want to receive a verification code (email or text message)
3. Enter the code and proceed to create a new password

For Local Accounts

1. Click on Reset password below your account name
2. Correctly answer your security questions
3. Enter and confirm your new password

Set Up Additional Sign-In Methods

To provide backup sign-in methods in case you forget your password, Windows 10 supports setting up:

• A 4-digit PIN
• A picture password
• Windows Hello face/fingerprint recognition

These additional sign-in methods are recommended to avoid getting locked out if you forget your main account password.

Conclusion

• Change your Windows 10 password regularly for better security
• Use a minimum of 8 characters including letters, numbers and symbols
• Set up alternative sign-in methods to avoid lockouts
• Use the password reset option on the sign-in screen if you get locked out

Following these best practices for changing your Windows 10 password will help keep your device and data more secure.