Forgot my Windows password or PIN

First, rule out typing problems

• Check Caps Lock is off.
• Select the eye icon in the password box to see what you're typing.
• If symbols such as @ or " come out wrong, Windows may be using a UK keyboard layout. Switch layouts with the language icon on the sign-in screen (see article 20).

Signed in with a Microsoft account (your email address)

1. On the sign-in screen, select I forgot my password or I forgot my PIN.
2. Verify your identity with the code Microsoft sends to your phone or email.
3. Choose a new password, sign in, and set up a new PIN.

You can also reset the password from another device at account.live.com/password/reset.

Signed in with a local account (a name, not an email)

1. Enter a wrong password once, then select Reset password.
2. Answer your security questions and choose a new password.
3. If you didn't set security questions, the only option is to reset Windows, which erases your files. Hold Shift and select Restart from the power icon, then choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC > Remove everything.

PIN says "Something happened and your PIN isn't available"? Select Sign-in options, sign in with your password, then go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN > I forgot my PIN to create a new one.