Forgot password, no backup

[UconnFan1970]

Forgot password on my HP 17” Notebook. Did not make backup disc. Not used device in 2 years so no recollection of anything else. 
thank you. 

[Max3Aj]

@UconnFan1970, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
Since you've forgotten the password to your HP 17” Notebook and haven’t used it in 2 years, let’s figure out the best way to get you back in.

First, a few quick questions:

What version of Windows is it running? (Windows 10, Windows 8, or something older?)

Is it a local account or Microsoft account?

Does it ask for a password right when it powers on (BIOS/UEFI), or after Windows loads (Windows login)?

Based on your situation, here are the most common solutions:

🔹 If it’s a Windows login password (not BIOS):

✅ Option 1: Microsoft Account Password Reset

If you used a Microsoft account (email-based login):

1. Go to another device and visit: https://account.live.com/password/reset
2. Follow the prompts to reset your password.
3. Once reset, log in with the new password on your notebook (make sure it's connected to Wi-Fi if needed).

✅ Option 2: Local Account – No Reset Disk

If you used a local user account and don’t remember the password:

🔁 Option A: Use Safe Mode with Command Prompt (if accessible)

1. You can try this if there’s no BIOS password and you can boot into Recovery:

Power on and force shut down the laptop 2-3 times during the Windows logo screen to trigger Recovery Mode.

2. Go to:

Advanced Options → Command Prompt

3. Enter this command to enable the built-in Administrator account: net user administrator /active:yes

4. Restart and log in using the Administrator account, then reset your user password:
net user yourusername newpassword

5. Disable the admin account later: net user administrator /active:no
 

✅ Option 3: Factory Reset / Reinstall Windows

If nothing works and you just want to use the laptop again (and don’t mind losing files):

Steps:

1. Power on, and repeatedly press F11 at startup.
2. Look for System Recovery or Reset this PC.
3. Choose to reset the PC and remove all files.

⚠️ This will delete everything, but you’ll get a fresh start with a new password.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support