Creating a password reset disk in Windows 10 is a smart move to avoid lockouts if you forget your password. Here’s a quick overview: you’ll need a USB flash drive or another removable disk. Access the User Accounts section in the Control Panel, insert your USB, and follow the wizard to create the reset disk. In a few simple steps, you’ll have a backup plan ready.
Creating a Password Reset Disk in Windows 10
By following these steps, you’ll set up a safety net for your Windows 10 password, ensuring you never get locked out of your computer.
Step 1: Insert a USB Flash Drive
Start by inserting a USB flash drive into your computer.
Make sure your USB drive is blank or doesn’t contain crucial data, as this process won’t delete your files but it’s always safer to back them up.
Step 2: Open Control Panel
Click on the Start menu and type “Control Panel” to open it.
Accessing the Control Panel this way ensures you’re in the correct settings area, where you can change user account options.
Step 3: Go to User Accounts
Within the Control Panel, select “User Accounts.”
This section provides tools for managing your Windows account, including password management.
Step 4: Click on “Create a Password Reset Disk”
Select “Create a password reset disk” from the options available.
This action launches the Forgotten Password Wizard, a guided tool that simplifies the process for you.
Step 5: Follow the Wizard
Complete the steps in the Wizard, selecting your USB drive and confirming your current password.
The wizard walks you through creating your reset disk, so just follow along and you’ll be done in no time.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your USB flash drive becomes a powerful tool. If you ever forget your password, simply insert this drive at the login screen, and it will guide you through resetting your password without losing access to your account.
Tips for Creating a Password Reset Disk in Windows 10
- Always use a dedicated USB flash drive for the reset disk to avoid accidental data loss.
- Label the USB drive clearly to remember its purpose.
- Keep the reset disk in a safe, secure place to prevent unauthorized use.
- Test the disk immediately after creating it to ensure it works properly.
- Update the password reset disk if you change your password significantly.
Who can use a password reset disk?
Only local accounts. If you sign in to Windows with a Microsoft account (an email address), the option doesn’t appear; reset that password online instead. To check, go to Settings > Accounts > Your info. A local account shows Local Account under your name.
You also need to know your current password while you create the disk, and you need a separate disk for each local account.
Open the wizard faster
Press Windows + R, type rundll32.exe keymgr.dll,PRShowSaveWizardExW, and press Enter. The same Forgotten Password Wizard opens without going through Control Panel.
How to use the password reset disk
- On the sign-in screen, type any password and press Enter.
- When Windows says the password is incorrect, select OK, then select Reset password.
- Plug in the USB drive and follow the Password Reset Wizard.
- Choose the USB drive, then enter a new password and a hint.
- Select Finish and sign in with the new password.
If your account also has security questions, Windows may show those first. Look for the option to use a password reset disk instead.
If it doesn’t work
- “Create a password reset disk” is missing: you’re signed in with a Microsoft account or a work account. These can’t use reset disks.
- “Please insert a disk” appears even with a USB plugged in: unplug the drive, plug it into another port, wait for Windows to recognize it, and select Next again.
- The disk doesn’t work at sign-in: you may be using an older disk after making a newer one, or the disk belongs to another account or PC.
- No disk and no access: see how to unlock your laptop when you forgot the password or how to reset the administrator password in Windows 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a new password reset disk every time I change my password?
No. A password reset disk keeps working after you change your password, so you only need to make it once. Creating a new disk for the same account makes the older one stop working.
What happens if I lose my password reset disk?
Make a new one while you can still sign in. Anyone who finds the old disk could use it to reset your password, so store it somewhere safe.
Can I use the password reset disk on another computer?
No, the reset disk is specific to the computer and user account it was created for.
Will creating a password reset disk delete my files on the USB?
No, it won’t delete your files, but it’s wise to use a blank or dedicated USB for this purpose.
Is it possible to create a password reset disk after forgetting my password?
Unfortunately, you can’t create a reset disk if you’re locked out. It’s preventive, not reactive.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.