Anyone who is computer savvy understands that losing an administrative password is very frustrating and inconvenient. With all the passwords you are responsible for retaining, it is common to forget or lose track sometimes. Most people think there is nothing they can do with their system if they lose administrative access. This isn’t the case. All hope is not lost. There is something you can do. Here is how you can get your lost administrative password back so you can get on with your normal computer activity. Read on for more information from a technician working for an IT company on how you can retrieve the lost password.
Items You Will Need:
- Windows XP CD
- Computer
- Patience
Step 1
Use the operating system compact disk (Windows XP CD). Place the disk into the CD Rom drive or the computer you are using to retrieve that password from.
Step 2
The CD will ask you to select a key to run any given function on the computer. For example, a prompt will appear that will ask you to “Press any key to boot from CD.” Follow the instructions.
Step 3
The setup will check the system you are operating from. Afterwards, the files will be loaded. A prompt will appear for you to know the action is being performed.
Step 4
Use the “Enter” key to start the setup for Windows. Now use the F8 function key to indicate that you are accepting of the Licensing Agreement they stipulate. Select the “Repair” option from the setup screen’s options.
Step 5
The repair function should be waited on for full completion. This may take several minutes to do. It is copying your files via Setup. Your computer will indicate that it is rebooting. You may see a countdown of 10 to 15 seconds before this happens. Do not press any buttons on the keyboard at the stage. Let the computer restart. The reboot is automatic.
Step 6
Look to the lower left hand part of your monitor. There will be a prompt that says the computer is “Installing Devices.” Press “Shift + F10” when you can see the prompt. At this point a command console will pop up and give you access to some system functions.
Step 7
Enter the following into the bar: “NUSRMGR.CPL” now press “Enter” key. Doing this reinstates your ability to use the User Accounts via the Control Panel of your computer.
Step 8
Choose the account which has to be altered. Put in the new password desired. You can even remove the password. Do this by entering in: “control userpasswords2” in case you desire to logon to the computer with no password. Close all open windows and then exit the command console. You will have to also key in the Product ID when asked.
Step 9
You can now log on with the new administrative password you entered.
