Skip to content
Follow
Windows

How to Create a Password Reset Disk in Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jul 8, 2024 Updated Jul 13, 2026 2 min read
Windows 11 password reset featured image
Windows 11 password reset featured image

Creating a password reset disk for Windows 11 lets you get back into your computer if you forget your password.

A password reset disk is a small tool you make on a USB drive that guides you through resetting your local account password. It’s like a special key for your computer’s lock.

You can only create this disk for a local account, not one linked to your Microsoft email. This process helps you avoid being locked out of your PC.

⚡ Quick Answer

Create a password reset disk by plugging in a USB drive, opening Control Panel, clicking User Accounts, and selecting “Create a password reset disk.” Follow the Forgotten Password Wizard prompts, enter your current password, and save the reset data to the USB.

Create a password reset disk on 🪟 Windows 11

As mentioned, you can create a password reset disk for your local account on Windows 11.

Here’s how to do it.

First, sign in to Windows with your local account.

Next, plug a USB flash drive into your Windows 11 device.

Once you’re signed in, open the Control Panel and click the User Accounts icon.

Control Panel user accounts
Control Panel user accounts

Click the “Create password reset” link on the left in the User Account -> User Accounts settings pane. If you log in with your Microsoft account, you won’t see this link.

Windows 11 Control Panel showing User Accounts and password reset link.
Windows 11 Control Panel showing User Accounts and password reset link.

On the “Forgotten Password Wizard” window, click Next.

Control Panel user accounts password disk wizard
Control Panel user accounts password disk wizard

Then, select the USB disk you’ll use for resetting your password.

Control Panel user accounts password disk wizard select disk
Control Panel user accounts password disk wizard select disk

On the next screen, type your current password and continue.

Control Panel user accounts password disk wizard select disk current password
Control Panel user accounts password disk wizard select disk current password

Finally, click the Finish button to complete the wizard.

Windows 11 password reset disk
Windows 11 password reset disk

That should do it!

Reference:

Conclusion:

  • Creating a password reset disk for a local account in Windows 11 is an important precautionary step in case you forget your password.
  • Remember that this feature is specific to local accounts and cannot be used for Microsoft accounts.
  • Following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily create a password reset disk using a USB flash drive and the Control Panel.
  • Should you ever find yourself locked out of your local account, having a password reset disk can save you from the hassle of password recovery or account reset procedures.

Was this guide helpful?

Tags: #Windows 11
Was this helpful?
Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

📚 Related Tutorials

Windows 11 Control Panel Shortcuts Guide
Windows Windows 11 Control Panel Shortcuts Guide
Understanding And Managing User Accounts In Windows 11
Windows Understanding And Managing User Accounts In Windows 11
How to List User Profiles and Accounts in Windows 11
Windows How to List User Profiles and Accounts in Windows 11
How to Create a Microsoft Account
Windows How to Create a Microsoft Account

No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *