Locked out of old PC

Hi,

Some years ago (maybe 3), I built a new rig and kept my old computer only to have it as storage.

Time flew and a move later, I cannot figure out the password anymore.

- I am pretty sure that it is a local account, not a Microsoft account.
- I don't have a password reset disk to solve the issue
- From what I understood, my case would require to enable the built-in admin account, but I am not sure I to proceed.

- Whatever option described in the different tutorials that I tried,

Reset PC (as I just want to recover the files stored there

Command Prompt

Boot in Safe mode

I always end-up to a screen asking me for the account password. For example, restarting in Command Prompt:


I guess that I am missing a part and would greatly appreciate if someone could support and point me to the right tutorial.

Thank in advance!

Regards

dalchina said:

Hi, from the huge searchable Tutorial section (do have a look..) I found this by searching it for

reset password

Reset Password of User Account in Windows 10

Hope it helps...

FWIW there's also this
How to Tell if Local Account or Microsoft Account in Windows 10
..but I think all options require that you be signed in to an account.

Thank you, I created a Windows 10 installation USB boot, maybe it could help.

Compumind said:

Hi there!

Welcome to Windows Ten Forums.

Yes, you have a real dilemma on your hands.

You are probably Administrator (administrative rights) of your system with a Local Account.
Do you have a backup of all your data on a separate drive?

There are ways to recover your password - but let me ask you this - is your location within the USA?
The reason I ask, is that Best Buy and Staples have a Microsoft software tool which the can immediately reset the password - for a fee, of course.

Hi!
No, unfortunately the 2 drives in this computer were used a back up/storage. So it is quite old files, not exactly sure but mainly pictures if I remember correctly
And no, I am not in the US, located in Sweden, Europe.

dalchina said:

I think you'd need to start with option 5 here:
Enable or Disable Elevated Administrator account in Windows 10
then return to Option 2 here:
Reset Password of User Account in Windows 10

I followed indeed Option 5 to enable the admin account, which was then available at the login screen.... and password "Admin" worked
I can now access the files and will sort out the accounts. Thanks a lot to both of you!