In today’s world, using a password is like opening a door to a bank vault, giving you access to your precious data and information. Passwords are crucial in maintaining your online security as you go about your daily life on the internet. However, forgetting or losing your password can be a nightmare and may lock you out of your devices. But worry not! There is a way to unlock your computer or other devices using command prompt. This blog post aims to give you a step-by-step guide on How to change password through command prompt with ease.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change Password Through Command Prompt
There are several reasons why you would need to change your password using the Command Prompt, including but not limited to;
- You have forgotten your password.
- You have lost password access.
- You want to change your password using a simple and straightforward process.
- You suspect your account has been hacked, and you need to change your password.
Method 1: Via Command Prompt
Changing your password using the Command Prompt is quite a straightforward method.
- Press the “Win” key and “R” key simultaneously to bring up the “Run” dialogue box.
- Type “cmd” in the search box and press “Enter”. This will open the command prompt window.
- Enter net user [username] * and press “Enter”.
- You will be prompted to enter your new password twice, to confirm and verify that you have input the correct password.
- Hit “Enter”. Your password will then be changed successfully.
Pros:
- Free and simple to use. There are no extra tools or apps needed to change your password.
- Cross-device compatibility. Whether you are on your smartphone, a tablet or laptop, or desktop computer, you can use CMD on all types of devices.
Cons:
- It’s a very technical process, which may discourage non-tech-savvy individuals from using it.
- If used wrongly, the Command Prompt may lead to further problems.
Method 2: Via Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI)
Alternatively, you can change your password through Windows Management Instrumentation.
- Press “Ctrl” + “Shift” + “Esc” at the same time to open the Task Manager.
- Click on “File” and then select “Run New Task.”
- Type in “cmd” in the search box and check the box that says “Create this task with administrative privileges.”
- Type “wmic useraccount where Name=[username] set Password” and press the “Enter” key.
- Type your new password, and then confirm it by typing it again, when prompted.
- Click “Enter”, and your new password is now set.
Pros:
- Simple and quick to use.
- The method allows you to change multiple user passwords simultaneously.
Cons:
- The method may be difficult for non-tech-savvy users to follow.
- Using the Windows Management Instrumentation may affect system stability if misapplied.
Method 3: Via Third-Party Password Manager Software
You can also change your password by using a reputable third-party password manager.
- Download and install a reliable password manager software.
- Locate the program on your desktop and open it.
- Choose the account or user and select the gear icon or the “change password” option which is a padlock or key icon.
- Enter the old password, followed by the new password and confirm it by typing it again when prompted.
- Click “Save” or “Update,” and your password will be changed successfully.
Pros:
- Password managers offer a high level of safety and security against hackers and other malicious third parties.
- Reputable password managers encrypt user details and passwords.
Cons:
- Some third-party password manager software may be costly to use.
- It may require significant technical know-how to use some third-party password manager software correctly.
What to Do If You Can’t Change Your Password
If you are trying to change your password but it’s not working, there are some things you can do to troubleshoot the problem:
- Check to see if you have typed in the correct username and password.
- Make sure the Caps Lock key is not on or the Num Lock key is not off.
- Restart your computer or device and try again.
- Check your network connectivity status and ensure your device is connected to the internet.
- If your device is joined to a domain: verify that your network admin has not restricted you from changing the password.
Bonus Tip
To make a strong and secure password, ensure that your password meets the following requirements:
- It has a minimum of eight characters.
- It should include upper case and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols such as @, $, %, *.
- Avoid using your name, your birth date, or any personal information that can easily be found online.
- Try to avoid using the same password for all your accounts and devices.
5 FAQs
Q1: How do I know if my password is strong enough?
A: A good password should have at least 8 characters, contain a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols such as @ or #. It should not include your name and any personal information that could be easily found online.
Q2: Can I change my password without admin access?
A: No. You need administrative access to change your password on a computer.
Q3: Can I change my password that is stored in a password vault?
A: Yes, you can change the password stored in a password vault. Open the password manager app, locate the account or user and select the gear icon or the “change password” option, which is a padlock or key icon.
Q4: Can I change my password remotely?
A: You can only change your password remotely through a terminal or Command Prompt by logging in remotely as an administrator.
Q5: Is it important to change my password periodically?
A: Yes. Changing your password periodically improves the security of your account and helps prevent your personal data from falling into the wrong hands.
Final Thoughts
Changing your password through Command Prompt should be approached with caution, particularly Method 1 or 2 which involve working with the code. If it ever seems overwhelming, it’s better to seek help from a professional. Always try to use strong and complex passwords, and avoid having the same password for more than one account. Finally, consider using a password manager software if you have multiple accounts or devices, or if you’re not good at creating and remembering strong passwords.