What if I forget my login password in Windows XP?

Many people create passwords that they don't remember. Actually it is easy to fix IF somebody didn't put a password in the Administrator section.

Here is what to do: When you first start your computer start tapping the F8 key. This should take you to a menu screen. Select "Safe Mode". It will take fairly long but be sure to wait. Go get a coffee if need be. Do not keep rebooting the computer. This may corrupt the registry and you would need to reload the operating system.

Once you are on the Safe Mode screen click the Start button. Then click "Control Panel". If you are in classic view double click User Accounts. If you are in category view left click user accounts. You should see a screen that allows you to change an account. Click on "Change an Account". Left click the account you want to change. You will see three long blank rectangular blocks. Leave them blank. It is very important that you do not put anything in these blocks. In the lower right corner of the screen click the block that says "change Password". You are done. Now reboot the computer and you should be able to log in.

What if this doesn't work?

Periodically somebody puts a password for the administrator. If this happens you could have big problems. For one thing you need to back up data that may be on the computer. If you don't know how to do that take it to somebody that does. Then reload the operating system. I realize this seems desperate but it is the only way you can override the password fields. In Widows 98 and below you could have easily bypassed these fields but not any more. WARNING! If you do reload the operating system it will remove any data or programs you used to have. That is why you must back up any information your ever want to see again. Look for a restore capability. Some computers come with the ability to restore them very easily. This method will bring the computer to the condition it was when you bought it.

Are there other ways?

Yes and no! If you take it to a technician it may cost you quite a bit of money. I have seen people actually buy new computers just because they couldn't get logged in. This is absolutely dumb. At least take it to somebody and have them give you an estimate and opinion. This is no time to act ignorant, If you do some companies will take advantage of you and charge you an arm and a leg.

How can I keep my password safe and still keep track of it. A password should be at least 8 characters long and should contain at least one number and capital letter. DO NOT use your cat or dog's name or your birthday or any family name. Make up something that nobody can guess and memorize it. DO NOT put it on a sticky note on your monitor. Write it down but put it in a safe place. I keep it in a binder. Roboform is a great program if you have a lot of passwords to remember. This program has one master password.

Please remember that passwords are there to protect you. Certain people hate passwords. I have had people take there password off only to have their personal information stolen or destroyed be somebody that hates them.