How to Change Password Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your computer secure is more important than ever — and one of the simplest yet most effective ways to do that is by updating your password regularly. Whether you’ve forgotten your current password, want to strengthen it, or just like to refresh your credentials from time to time, changing your password in Windows 11 is quick and easy.

This detailed, step-by-step guide will show you how to change, reset, or remove your password in Windows 11 — using different methods like Settings, Ctrl + Alt + Delete, Command Prompt, and more.

Table of Contents

Why You Should Change Your Windows 11 Password

Changing your password isn’t just about keeping things fresh — it’s about protecting your data and privacy. Over time, passwords can get leaked, guessed, or reused across multiple accounts.

By updating your Windows 11 password regularly, you:

Prevent unauthorized access.
Strengthen your overall device security.
Keep personal and work data safe.
Stay compliant with company security policies.

Think of it as changing the locks on your digital home every few months.

2. Before You Begin

Before changing your password, make sure to:

Save any work in progress.
Know your current password or PIN (for verification).
If you’re using a Microsoft account, ensure you have an internet connection.

3. Method 1: Change Password Through Windows Settings

This is the most common and straightforward method.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to Accounts → Sign-in options.
Under Password, click Change.
Enter your current password, then create a new one.
Confirm the password and click Next → Finish.

✅ Tip: Choose a password that’s at least 8–12 characters long, with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

4. Method 2: Change Password Using Ctrl + Alt + Delete Shortcut

This method works great if you’re already logged in.

Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete simultaneously.
Click Change a password.
Enter your old password and then your new one.
Re-enter the new password and press Enter.

You’ll see a confirmation message that your password has been successfully changed.

5. Method 3: Change Microsoft Account Password

If you use a Microsoft account to sign in to Windows 11, changing your password affects all Microsoft services (Outlook, OneDrive, Xbox, etc.).

Go to account.microsoft.com.
Sign in with your account.
Click Security → Password security.
Enter your current password and then your new one.
Save your changes.

Next time you log into Windows 11, use your new password.

6. Method 4: Reset Local Account Password

For a local account, you can reset the password from the lock screen.

On the sign-in screen, click I forgot my password (if available).
Answer your security questions or follow the prompts.
Create a new password and sign in.

If security questions weren’t set, you’ll need a password reset disk (created earlier) or administrator access.

7. Method 5: Change Password via Command Prompt

If you like doing things the tech-savvy way, Command Prompt can handle it:

Press Windows + S, type cmd, and Run as administrator.
Type the following command and press Enter:

net user yourusername newpassword

Example:

net user John newpass123!
Restart your PC and log in with the new password.

⚠️ Note: Replace yourusername and newpassword with your actual username and password.

8. Method 6: Change Password Using Control Panel

Although Control Panel is old-school, it still works perfectly.

Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.
Go to User Accounts → User Accounts → Manage another account.
Select your account and click Change the password.
Enter your current and new password, then save.

9. Method 7: Remove Password Completely (Local Account Only)

If you’re the only one using your PC, you can remove the password entirely:

Press Windows + R, type netplwiz, and press Enter.
Uncheck “Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer.”
Enter your current password to confirm.
Restart your PC — it will log in automatically.

⚠️ Warning: Not recommended if you share your computer or store sensitive data.

10. Method 8: Change PIN or Windows Hello Password

Windows 11 lets you use PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition. To change these:

Go to Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options.
Under PIN (Windows Hello), click Change.
Enter your old PIN and set a new one.

This is handy if you prefer logging in with a short PIN instead of a full password.

11. Tips for Creating a Strong Password

A strong password keeps hackers guessing — forever! Follow these tips:

Use at least 12 characters.
Combine uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
Avoid using your name, birthday, or common words.
Try a passphrase (like “Coffee$IsMySuperpower!”).
Change it every few months.

12. What to Do If You Forgot Your Password

If you’re locked out:

For Microsoft accounts, go to the Password Reset Page.
For local accounts, use a password reset disk or another administrator account.
If nothing works, you might need to reset Windows 11 while keeping your files.

13. How to Enable Password Protection on Wake-Up

To make your PC ask for a password after sleep:

Press Windows + I → Accounts → Sign-in options.
Under Additional settings, choose When PC wakes up from sleep → select Every time.

Now your system is protected, even when you step away for a coffee break.

14. Change Password Without Logging In

If you can’t log in but still want to change your password:

On the sign-in screen, click Power → Restart, while holding Shift.
Choose Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Command Prompt.
In Command Prompt, enter:

net user yourusername newpassword
Restart your computer and log in using the new password.

15. Why Use a Microsoft Account for Login

Using a Microsoft account provides:

Cloud syncing for settings and passwords.
Easy recovery if you forget your password.
Stronger two-step authentication.
Access to OneDrive, Outlook, and Store with one login.

It’s a bit like having one key that opens every door safely.

16. Common Password Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using short or simple passwords.
❌ Reusing passwords across multiple sites.
❌ Writing your password on sticky notes.
❌ Ignoring update reminders.

Even the best locks are useless if you leave the door open!

17. Conclusion

Changing your password in Windows 11 is a simple but powerful step toward keeping your digital life secure. Whether you prefer the Settings app, Ctrl + Alt + Delete shortcut, or Command Prompt — there’s a method for everyone.

Remember to update your password regularly, use a strong combination, and enable two-factor authentication for extra protection. A few minutes today can save you from serious headaches later.

18. FAQs

1. How often should I change my Windows 11 password?
Every 3–6 months is ideal, especially if you use your PC for sensitive data or work.

2. What happens if I forget my Microsoft account password?
You can reset it easily through Microsoft’s password recovery page online.

3. Can I use a PIN instead of a password?
Yes! Windows Hello lets you use a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition.

4. Will changing my Microsoft password affect Outlook or OneDrive?
Yes, because they all use the same login credentials.

5. Is it possible to disable the password entirely?
Yes, but only for local accounts — and it’s not recommended for security reasons.