If you know your current password and can sign in, changing a Windows 10 password only takes a few minutes. The steps depend on whether the account is a Microsoft account or a local account.
This guide covers Windows 10 Microsoft accounts and local accounts.
Does This Affect You?
Use the Microsoft account method if you sign in with an email address. Use the local account method if the account exists only on this PC and shows a username without an email address.
Change a Microsoft Account Password
- Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Under Password, click Change.
- Verify your identity with the current password.
- Enter the current password again if prompted, then enter the new password twice.
- Click Next and Finish. The change applies to other Microsoft services after they reconnect online.
Change a Local Account Password
- Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Under Password, click Change.
- Enter the current password.
- Enter and confirm the new password, then add a hint if you want one.
- Click Next and Finish.
Use Ctrl Alt Delete
- Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete.
- Choose Change a password.
- Enter the old password and the new password twice.
- Press Enter or click the arrow to confirm.
Security Steps Worth Doing Now
Add a PIN
A Windows Hello PIN is tied to this device, so it is quick for local sign-in and does not expose your full Microsoft account password every time.
Enable Two-Step Verification
For Microsoft accounts, open account.microsoft.com/security and turn on two-step verification to protect the account even if the password leaks.
Use a Strong Password
Choose a long password, ideally 12 characters or more, and avoid birthdays, names, or reused passwords. A password manager can generate and store one safely.
If Someone Else May Know It
Check Settings > Accounts > Other users for unfamiliar accounts, and review Microsoft account sign-in activity online.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Change your Windows password
- Microsoft Support: Reset a forgotten Windows password
- Microsoft Support: Sign-in options and account protection