RESET PASSWORD

[KIMD50]

How do I reset the password on an older model HP laptop without the reset disk? I would like to save all my current information at the same time

[Max3Aj · Accepted solution]

@KIMD50, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help the customer reset the password on their older HP laptop running Windows 8.1 (64-bit) without a reset disk, while preserving their data:

Option 1: Reset Microsoft Account Password (if using Microsoft account)

If the user logs in with a Microsoft account (email address), they can reset the password online:

1. Go to the Microsoft Password Reset page.
2. Select "I forgot my password" and click Next.
3. Enter the Microsoft account email and follow the on-screen instructions to verify identity and reset the password.
4. Once reset, use the new password to log in.

Option 2: Use Safe Mode with Command Prompt (for local account)

If it's a local account and there's no reset disk, try this method:

This method requires some technical steps and administrative access. Proceed carefully.

Boot into Advanced Startup Options:

• Turn off the laptop.
• Turn it on and immediately press F11 repeatedly until the Choose an option screen appears.
• If F11 doesn’t work, try Shift + Restart from the login screen.

Navigate to Command Prompt:

• Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.

Enable Hidden Administrator Account:

• In Command Prompt, type:
• Press Enter.

Restart the Laptop:

• Type exit and press Enter.
• Restart the laptop and log in using the Administrator account (no password by default).

Reset Your Password:

• Open Control Panel > User Accounts > Manage another account.
• Select your account and choose Change the password.

Disable the Administrator Account (for security):

• After resetting, open Command Prompt as admin and type: net user administrator /active:no

Option 3: HP Recovery Manager (if other options fail)

If none of the above work and you still want to preserve data:

Use HP Recovery Manager to perform a System Refresh:

• This keeps personal files but reinstalls Windows.
• Access it by pressing F11 at startup > Troubleshoot > Recovery Manager.

Additional Tips:

• Always back up your data regularly to avoid data loss.

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. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support