How to Reset Your Laptop Password Without Losing Files

If you’ve found yourself locked out of your late mother’s laptop, it’s understandable to want access without risking the loss of her important files. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you reset the password while retaining all data:

Step 1: Identify the Operating System

Before proceeding, determine whether the laptop runs Windows or macOS, as the methods to reset passwords differ.

Step 2: Create a Windows Installation Media (for Windows Users)

If the laptop runs Windows, you’ll need a Windows installation USB. If you don’t have one, follow these steps:

1- Obtain a USB drive (8GB or larger).

2- On another computer, go to the Windows 10 Download page or Windows 11

3- Download the Media Creation Tool and run it.

4- Select “Create installation media” and follow the prompts to create a bootable USB drive. or read our guide ( step by step)

Step 3: Boot from the Installation Media

1. Insert the USB drive into the locked laptop.
2. Restart the laptop and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F12, or DEL during boot).
3. Change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive.
4. Save changes and exit BIOS.

Step 4: Access the Command Prompt

1. When the Windows Setup screen appears, select your language preferences and click “Next.”
2. Click on “Repair your computer” on the bottom left.
3. Select “Troubleshoot,” then “Advanced options,” and finally “Command Prompt.”

Step 5: Reset the Password

In the Command Prompt, follow these commands carefully:

1. Backup the sethc.exe file: copy C:\Windows\System32\sethc.exe C:\
2. Replace sethc.exe with cmd.exe: copy /y C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe C:\Windows\System32\sethc.exe
3. Reboot the laptop: Close the Command Prompt and choose to continue to Windows.

Step 6: Trigger Command Prompt at Login

1. On the login screen, tap the Shift key five times. This should open the Command Prompt.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type: net user [YourUserName] [NewPassword] Replace [YourUserName] with the actual username and [NewPassword] with your new password.
3. Close the Command Prompt and try logging in with the new password.

Step 7: Restore sethc.exe

Once you’ve successfully logged in, it’s essential to restore the original Sticky Keys exe file:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type: copy /y C:\sethc.exe C:\Windows\System32\sethc.exe

Step 8: Backup Important Files (Optional but Recommended)

After you regain access, consider backing up important files to an external drive or cloud storage for future safety.

Step 9: Create a Password Reset Disk (for Windows Users)

If you want to prevent being locked out in the future:

1. Insert a USB drive.
2. Go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Create a password reset disk.
3. Follow the wizard to create the disk.

For macOS Users

If the laptop is a Mac:

1. Restart the Mac, and hold down Command + R to enter Recovery Mode.
2. Select “Utilities” from the top menu, then “Terminal.”
3. Type resetpassword and press Enter.
4. Follow the prompts to reset the password without losing data.

Conclusion

Following these steps should help you regain access to your late mother’s laptop without compromising her files. Remember to take precautions in the future by creating a password reset disk or using a password manager.

Feel free to share this guide with anyone who might find it helpful. Thank you for reading!