#0024 Lost Customer Passwords

Frustration for Everyone

One of the biggest time wasters for an IT person, is when a customer forgets a password. This post is NOT meant to single out any client. Over the years it has happened more times than I can count. It usually goes something like this:

Technician: Hello. Can I help you?
Customer: I lost my Windows password. Can you tell me what it is?
Technician: No, I'm sorry I am afraid I can't. Did you write it down anywhere?
Customer: No. Can you just tap a few keys and get me in like they do on TV?
Technician: No, I'm sorry I am afraid I can't. That only happens in Hollywood. Did you try the password reset?
Customer: No. Should I try that?
Technician: Yes.
Customer: It wants me to put in a code from a text message, but I used a land line. [or customer doesn't know how to text and has a flip-phone]
Technician: [smacks forehead] What version of Windows do you have?
Customer: Microsoft.
Technician: [smacks forehead again] Do you have a backup of your files?
Customer: No.
Technician: [getting a headache now] Bring the computer in, and I will see if I can hack the password.

Resolving A Lost Windows Password

There are some 3rd party tools that help us REMOVE a Windows password with Windows 7, 8 and 10, but Windows 11 has become so secure that it's getting quite difficult. Unfortunately, this issue happens with one of our customers about once or twice a month. We do our best, but it sometimes it takes days of going back and forth with the client to finally gain access. Most of the time, we eventually figure it out.

However, BitLocker makes the lost Windows password even worse. If BitLocker is enabled and the password or Microsoft account password are both unrecoverable, then the computer will need to be reformatted and reloaded. The files are lost. Not even Microsoft can help. See the link to the Bitlocker artcile shown below.

Tip:
Click this link for a >> FREE RANDOM PASSWORD GENERATOR <<<

I recommend using 16 characters, turn OFF symbols and similar characters.