A forgotten Windows 10 password can be frustrating when protecting personal data, which is critical in the digital era. Fortunately, it is possible and relatively simple to get back into your computer using password reset programs.
This detailed article from EaseUS reviews the best four Windows 10 password reset tools. Whether you need to reset your password for various reasons or have forgotten it, continue reading to see the most outstanding choices and regain control of your Windows 10 device.
Before diving into the details, let’s examine the following table of 2024’s top four password reset tools. These tools have many capabilities to simplify password recovery and secure your machine.
🛠️Tools | 🖥️Compatibility |
🧩Difficulty |
🏅Rating |
EaseUS Partition Master |
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/7 SP1/Vista/XP and ALL Windows Servers |
Very Easy |
★★★★☆ |
PassFab 4WinKey |
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP/2000 |
Easy |
★★★★☆ |
Passware Kit |
Windows 11/10 and Windows Server 2022/2019/2016 (64-bit only), macOS, Linux… | Neutral |
★★★★☆ |
Microsoft Password Reset Disk |
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7 and older versions | Neutral |
★★★☆☆ |
From beginners to IT pros, you can find the suitable one for your Windows 10 computer. If you aspire to multifunction and a better drive management experience, then EaseUS Partition Master Professional is your best choice.
Now, don’t hesitate to share this page with other users, and read on for more information!
Top 4 Windows 10 Password Reset Tools
Here is a thorough review of the top 4 password reset tools for Windows 10.
#1. EaseUS Partition Master
🏅Rating: 4.7 out of 5
🖥️Compatibility: Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/7 SP1/Vista/XP and ALL Windows Servers
EaseUS Partition Master is a multipurpose disk management tool. It offers disk partitioning, data recovery, and system optimization. Users can resize, combine, split, format, and clone partitions to maximize disk space and manage data. This capability will be appreciated by users who need to repartition drives without losing data or system stability. EaseUS Partition Master also recovers files from formatted or inaccessible volumes. The software reliably recovers data from unintentional deletion, formatting issues, and partition corruption.
In addition, EaseUS Partition Master provides a complete toolkit for storage device management and advanced features like Password Reset.
📌Main Features:
- Reset password & PIN: Without reinstalling Windows 10, quickly reset forgotten passwords and PIN.
- System optimization: Use programs for disk defragmentation and cleanup to enhance disk and accelerate PC.
- Partition recovery: Restore lost or deleted partitions.
- Disk cloning: Without reinstalling Windows, clone a drive to move data, the operating system, or programs to a new one.
- Disk partitioning: It maximize disk space, resize, combine, split, format, and clone partitions.
EaseUS Partition Master
Expert’s Rating:
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Comprehensive features
- Wide compatibility
- Free version available
Cons
- Some advanced features are only available in the paid version.
📝Review from Capterra
Whenever you need to deal with partitions, format, convert from MBR to GPT without losing data or system, or migrate OS, EaseUS Partition Master Pro is the best, no doubt!
✒️Personal Thought
For Windows 10 account lockouts, EaseUS Partition Master’s password reset tool is convenient. The app simplifies password recovery by guiding users through each stage. The utility is stable and easy to use, with comprehensive disk management capabilities.
The following page contains a tutorial that can help you reset your Windows 10 password with this practical tool.
How to Reset Windows 10 Password Without Logging in
This article will show you how to reset your Windows 10 password without logging in and regain access to your PC. Continue reading for more details. Read more >>
#2. PassFab 4WinKey
🏅Rating: 4.1 out of 5
🖥️Compatibility: Windows11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP/2000
PassFab 4WinKey is a detailed Windows password recovery program that helps users unlock their locked accounts. PassFab 4WinKey makes resetting domain passwords, account lockouts, and forgotten passwords easy. Regardless of technical ability, its intuitive design makes navigation quick and easy. PassFab 4WinKey quickly restores user access to their systems, relieving password-related difficulties. This utility can resolve local, Microsoft, and domain account lockouts quickly and easily.
📌Main Features:
- Windows password recovery: Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP systems can have their lost passwords for local, Microsoft and domain accounts reset.
- Create bootable USB/CD/DVD: This creates a bootable USB, CD, or DVD and allows you to reset passwords on several machines.
- Support for diverse devices: Recover passwords for various systems and apps, such as iPhones, Windows, spreadsheets, and RAR archives.
PassFab 4WinKey
Expert’s Rating:
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Quick and efficient
- Support for Diverse Devices
- Technical support
Cons
- Limited free trial
📝Review from Tekpon
PassFab 4WinKey is a dependable Windows-based tool that may help you recover or reset your Windows password. All of the positive comments demonstrate its effectiveness.
✒️Personal Thought
Users locked out of their accounts can easily reset Windows passwords with PassFab 4WinKey. The software’s ability to manufacture bootable password reset DVDs makes it versatile for recovering passwords on various systems. Its effectiveness and ease make it worth the price for individuals who require a trustworthy password recovery solution.
Read also: How to Remove Windows 10 Password
#3. Passware Kit
🏅Rating: 4.0 out of 5
🖥️Compatibility: Windows 11/10 and Windows Server 2022/2019/2016 (64-bit only), macOS, Linux…
Passware Kit is a versatile password recovery tool that unlocks encrypted data on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. Forensic detectives, IT professionals, and file lockers can utilize its numerous features to defeat password restrictions. Passware Kit quickly retrieves passwords from various file kinds and encryption methods with its robust set of features. This software is essential for unlocking secured documents, archives, and databases—allowing users to quickly and precisely recover control.
📌Main Features:
- Multiple platform support: It recovers passwords for files and systems on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Password recovery for various file types: Various file types can recover their passwords, including documents, archives, databases, email accounts, and more.
- Advanced encryption algorithms: Recovers passwords quickly and effectively using sophisticated decryption methods and algorithms.
- Batch processing: With batch processing, users can save time and effort by recovering passwords for several files at once.
Passware Kit
Expert’s Rating:
Pros
- Wide compatibility
- Batch processing capabilities
- Advanced decryption techniques
- Forensic mode
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Limited trial version
📝Review from IT Pro
Passware Kit is one of the most comprehensive password recovery apps we’ve tested, covering many more file types than much of the competition.
✒️Personal Thought
Forensic investigators, IT workers, and anybody working with password-protected information will benefit from Passware Kit’s ability to recover passwords across systems and file types. Its sophisticated decryption and batch processing speed up password recovery, while its forensic mode ensures investigation integrity and legality. Although new users may find it challenging, its extensive feature set and efficiency make it a worthy investment for password recovery solutions.
Read also: Reset Windows 10 Password Without a Disk
#4. Microsoft Password Reset Disk
🏅Rating: 3.6 out of 5
🖥️Compatibility: Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7 and older versions
The Microsoft Password Reset Disk is built into the Windows operating system and helps users recover restricted accounts if they forget their password. Easy setup lets users generate a reset disk using system settings. It supports many Windows versions and allows offline password reset for privacy and security. Users looking for a solid password recovery tool will like its accessibility and low cost, but it requires proactive configuration. It is a reliable Windows utility due to its offline functionality and built-in simplicity.
📌Main Features:
- Simple setup: Users may quickly create a password reset disk through the Control Panel or User Accounts settings.
- Compatibility: Supports Windows 10, Windows 8/8.1, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP, among all other Windows versions.
- Offline password reset: Resetting a Windows password offline allows users to do it even if they cannot access their account.
- One-time setup: Once made, the password reset disk can be used several times to change the password for the same user account.
Microsoft Password Reset Disk
Expert’s Rating:
Pros
- Built-in functionality
- Free to use
- Offline password reset
- No internet connection required
Cons
- Requires proactive setup
- Limited to local accounts
- Vulnerable to physical theft
✒️Personal Thought
The Microsoft Password Reset Disk is a simple and reliable way to reset Windows passwords for users who want built-in functionality and don’t want to install third-party applications. Windows users benefit from its convenience and accessibility, but it requires proactive setup. Users should safeguard the password reset disk to prevent unwanted access to their accounts.
Conclusion
In this extensive tutorial article, we have examined the best Windows 10 password reset tools of 2024, each with special features and capabilities. This page aims to give readers dependable methods for rapidly and simply restoring access to their Windows accounts. EaseUS Partition Master stands out among the presented tools for its powerful performance, intuitive interface, and sophisticated capabilities. Since EaseUS Partition Master can easily and quickly reset Windows 10 passwords or bypass PIN, we advise customers to utilize it for hassle-free password recovery.
Don’t forget to share this page on your social media if you find it useful in helping you make the decision.
Windows 10 Password Reset Tools FAQs
-
Q
1. Is it possible to bypass Windows PIN?
- Yes, there are a few ways to bypass a Windows PIN. One popular method is entering the Windows recovery environment and using advanced troubleshooting options to reset or erase the PIN. Another is to use specialist software tools to bypass Windows login credentials.
-
Q
2. Can you unlock a laptop if you forgot the password?
- Yes, in case your laptop is failing to accept a particular password, there are several techniques you can apply to recover it in a few minutes. One possible way out would be to reset password using a password reset disk if you have one created in the past. Together you can also attempt logging in with another user account with admin privileges or switch to the unique third-party password reset tools that have been especially designed for the case of Windows.
-
Q
3. What is the best tool to reset Windows 10 password?
- The best remedy for resetting a password in the Windows 10 model depends on the situation and individual preferences. However, the EaseUS Partition Master is preferred due to its related features, ease of use, and reliability of all options. It provides a very convenient tool that allows users to regain access to their accounts without reinstalling the whole Windows system
Everyone wants to feel safe and protected, so it is “safe” to assume that security is a priority for most humans. It doesn’t matter what’s being protected, our health, kids, finances, or especially, our gadgets; we protect our assets to forestall possible adversity. This security comes in the form of passwords, locks, guards, etc. For the most part, they work. The flipside occurs when you can’t recall your passwords and therefore are locked out of your property. If you have just lost your passwords, don’t lose your cool, this article’s sole focus is to help you recover your Windows passwords using the Windows password recovery tool.
What is a Windows Password Recovery Tool?
Windows saves your user and admin text passwords in the form of encrypted irreversible character strings called hashes, which are stored either locally or on network servers and act as protection when certifying a user. Microsoft upgrades their security with each OS upgrade, but numerous tools can bypass or crack Windows passwords. These tools are called Windows Password Recovery Tools, and note that unlocks or break your own Windows passwords is undoubtedly a legitimate practice.
How To Choose the best Windows Password Recovery Tool
Everyone has a set optimal budget they can’t go beyond, and some of these Windows password recovery tools may be pricey for the average user. However, the good news is that many of them are free, as I’ll outline below. Some of these tools have their limitations like some tools have quicker recovery rates than others. In contrast, it’s an issue for other tools if the password is lengthy as some Windows password recovery have restrictions on the length of passwords they can crack.
Keep your eyes peeled for the software costs, compatibility with your Windows version, password length restriction, recovery rates, and ease of access. These individual qualities are addressed in this article and guide you by choosing your ideal Windows password recovery software. Discover below the top ten best Windows password recovery tools for the year 2025, and get started recovering your Windows password. Guess what! It’s easy too.
- Top 1. Windows Password Reset
- Top 2. iSunshare Windows Password Genius
- Top 3. Passper Winsenior
- Top 4. The Ophcrack Windows Password Recovery Software
- Top 5. Windows Password Recovery Bootdisk
- Top 6. PassFab 4WinKey
- Top 7. Offline NT Password & Registry Editor (Chrntpw)
- Top 8. LCP Windows Password Cracker
- Top 9. John The Ripper
- Top 10. Windows Password Buster
Top 1. Windows Password Reset
Windows Password Reset is an all-in-one completely graphical Windows password recovery tool with simple and detailed instructions. It is a plug and play technology where you just insert the bootable disc, and it takes over with little support from you.
The Windows Password Reset has four editions, and they are all automatic; you can easily burn the software into CD/DVD or USB Drive. These editions include the Professional edition at 17.95, the Ultimate Edition at 27.95, the Special Edition at $45.95, and the RAID edition at $79.95.
Free Download
Buy Now(Pro)
Platform: This Windows password recovery tool works on every Windows version available to the public at the moment in both 32 and 64 bit.
Key Features of Windows Password Reset:
- Quickly reset Windows local user password and local administrator password for Windows OS 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP and Windows server 2016/2012/2008/2003/2000.
- Can securely Reset Domain Administrator passwords for Windows Server 2016/2012/2008/2003/2000.
- Creates a CD/DVD password reset disc in simple steps
- Resets Microsoft account password in Windows OS 8/8.1 and Windows OS 10.
- Create a new Administrator account without needing the log in to Windows.
- Deletes user account without needing the log in Windows.
- Supports RAID Server and SATA, SCSI and IDE hard disks.
Reset Windows Password Instantly Using 3 Simple Steps
- Step 1: Download and install Windows Password Reset on a separate computer.
- Step 2: Simply create a password reset disk on a USB or CD/DVD.
- Step 3: Boot the locked computer from the password reset disk to reset Windows password.
- Click here for the detailed step-by-step guide
Pros and Cons of Windows Password Reset
Pros
- Easy to use with detailed instructions
- Resets both administrator and local account passwords
- Has an excellent recovery rate
- Can be burnt to both a CD/DVD or USB drive (for professional versions and higher)
- Compatible with every Windows versions
- Has no password length restrictions
- No need to format or reinstall Windows
- Supports most file systems (FAT16, NTFS, etc.)
- Readily available technical Support
- MCSE Microsoft Certified
Cons
- Isn’t compatible with Linux or mobile system
Top 2. iSunshare Windows Password Genius
iSunshare Windows Password Genius is a nifty Windows Password Recovery Tool that functions on all versions of Windows. It has four editions with varying prices and functionality (Standard at $19.95, Professional at 29.95, Advanced at 39.95, and Raid at 79.95), which can be set up on either CD/DVD or USB drive. You don’t need to access Windows to recover your passwords.
Platform: Supports Windows OS 10/8/7/Vista/XP/2000 in both 32 and 64 bits.
Key Features of iSunshare Windows Password Genius:
- Smoothly reset Windows local user password and local administrator password for Windows OS 10/8/7/Vista/XP/2000 and Windows server 2016/2012/2011/2008/2003/2000.
- Can securely Reset Domain Administrator passwords for Windows Server 2016/2012/2008/2003/2000.
- Easily creates a CD/DVD password reset disc.
- Quickly recovers forgotten Windows password within a few minutes.
- Resets Microsoft account password in Windows OS 8/8.1 and Windows OS 10.
- Instantly creates a new Administrator account without needing to log in to Windows.
- Deletes user account without needing log in Windows.
- Supports RAID Server and SATA, SCSI and IDE hard disks.
- Can recover Windows password of all computer brands.
- System Requirements are minuscule.
Pros and Cons of the iSunshare Windows Password Recovery tool
Pros
- 100% recovery rate on even the latest Windows.
- Supports all versions of the Windows OS and computer types.
- Recovery is time Efficient.
- An easily grasped tutorial is available.
- No password restrictions on paid versions.
- Allows you to create a new admin user.
- No need to format or reinstall Windows.
- Costless lifetime technical support.
Cons
- The trial version has minimal functionality.
- Sometimes fails to recognize the USB drive.
- The interface isn’t too user-friendly.
There are four steps involved in using the iSunshare Windows Password Recovery tool:
- After burning the software into your USB drive or CD/DVD.
- Select the operating system as “Step 1.”
- Pick the user whose password you’d like to reset as “Step 2.”
- Reset the user’s password as “Step 3″ and then reboot your computer as”Step 4” .
Top 3. Passper Winsenior
Passper Winsenior is a very swift Windows password recovery software that is excellent with Windows rainbow tables. The lost passwords can be recovered within minutes, and first-time users with limited knowledge of Windows have found it extremely easy to navigate. Passper Winsenior allows you to easily remove, change, and create user accounts and passwords.
Passper Winsenior’s 1-year plan can be purchased here for just $39.95 or the lifetime plan at $59.95.
Platform: Windows 10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista in 32 or 64 bit.
Key Features:
- Allows you to recover your lost Windows passwords in just a few clicks completely.
- Excellent and secure %100 recovery rate.
- Easily creates a CD/DVD password reset disc.
- Has a portable, easily downloadable size.
- Recovers passwords in every format within minutes.
- Smoothly resets local user, domain administrator, and local administrator password for Windows OS 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP/ and Windows server 2016/2012/2011/2008/2003/2000.
- Resets Microsoft account password in Windows OS 8/8.1 and Windows OS 10.
- Instantly creates a new Administrator account.
Pros and Cons of the Passper Winsenior Windows password recovery software
Pros
- Excellent and secure recovery.
- Has a smaller size compared to other recovery tools.
- User-friendly interface.
- Recovery can be completed in minutes.
- Supports all versions of Windows.
- Steps are very easily grasped.
- No password length restrictions.
- Money-back guarantee within 30 days.
- Excellent at recovering passwords of other formats.
- Creates, change, or delete user accounts.
- No need to format or reinstall Windows.
Cons
- Doesn’t support macOS.
- Requires 1GHz of CPU and about 512 MB of Ram to function properly.
Access your locked Computer Using 3 Easy Steps
- Step 1. Create a Windows password reset disk using a CD/DVD or USB drive on a different PC.
- Step 2. Boot the locked computer by entering its boot menu from the reset disk
- Step 3. Select your need, i.e., choose whether to reset or remove Windows passwords or delete or create Windows accounts.
Top 4. The Ophcrack Windows Password Recovery Software
The Ophcrack Windows Password Reset Software is a quick open-source Windows Password Recovery tool and is one of the best freeware Windows password recovery tools you’d find. The Ophcrack Windows Password Recovery Software accesses Windows based on the quicker time-memory trade-off by using rainbow tables to brute force crack it, plus its use of real-time graphs obviates the need for password hints. It’s automatic, so it requires very little Windows expertise to navigate. The best version for novices is the live CD version, which you download and burn into a CD/DVD or flash drive before inserting into the locked PC. Download the Ophcrack Live CDand also get free tables.
Pros and Cons of the Ophcrack Windows Password Recovery Software
Pros
- Compatible with all operating platforms.
- Doesn’t require software installation.
- Can be downloaded 100% free online.
- Very quick and great recovery rates.
- Doesn’t require password hints.
- Can recover original password.
- Analyses passwords using real-time graphs.
- Works using either a USB drive or CD/DVD.
Cons
- Doesn’t support Windows 10, 8.1.
- Does poorly with passwords longer than 14 characters.
- It has a very large file size (about 425MB).
- Antivirus programs often tag it as malware.
- Complex for beginners as it uses a text interface.
Top 5. Windows Password Recovery Bootdisk
Windows Password Recovery Bootdisk lets you remove a lost Windows account password and gives the option of using extracted hashes for more advanced cracking (not for novices, though). You can view the number of password-protected accounts and submit extracted hashes to recover previous passwords. This means that you can restore the original password later to the laptop after resetting it.
Pros
- Pick and choose which passwords to remove.
- Records independent bootable disks or USB to crack passwords.
- Supports FAT & NFTS file systems as well as IDE/SATA?SCSI hard drives.
- Small but efficient download size.
- Quick recovery rate.
- No need to format or reinstall Windows.
Cons
- It doesn’t work on Windows 10 OS.
- Hasn’t been updated in years.
Top 6. PassFab 4WinKey
PassFab 4WinKey is quick, widely used, and supports all versions of Windows. It cracks Windows passwords by using decryption codes and is the perfect tool for novices. It has four versions with varying prices and increasing specifications (Standard at $19.95, Professional at $29.95, Enterprise at $39.95, and Ultimate at $69.95).
Pros
- Simple and User-friendly interface.
- Resets Windows passwords in minutes regardless of their password length and complexities.
- Very fast and has a good recovery rate.
- Supports most file systems and hard drives.
- Supports all Windows versions and Mac Versions.
- Secure and reliable recovery rates.
- Free technical support.
- No need to format or reinstall Windows.
Cons
- Isn’t compatible with Linus or mobile system
- It has a basic requirement that your system’s CPU processor must be equal to or above 1GHZ.
Top 7. Offline NT Password & Registry Editor (Chrntpw)
Offline NT Password & Registry Editor (Chrntpw) is a free and open-source Windows password recovery program designed mostly for people with basic Windows knowledge. It is completely text-based and targets the hidden registry file that stores passwords. This tool is rapid, minimalistic, and supports all versions of Windows. Office NT Password & Registry Editor functions more like a password remover; however, you can create a new password after the program has done its job.
Pros
- Completely Free and super fast.
- Has no password length restrictions.
- Does not require installation.
- Compatible with all Windows versions.
- Doesn’t require an internet connection.
- Small and efficient size.
- Open source and adaptable to the needs of users.
- No need to format or reinstall Windows.
Cons
- It is a text-based tool, so it’s difficult for novices.
- Doesn’t recover the previous password.
- Hasn’t been updated since 2014.
- Requires an additional app to burn ISO image into the USB drive, and you must boot to the USB drive or CD/DVD.
Top 8. LCP Windows Password Cracker
LCP Windows Password Cracker is a robust audit and cracking tool which imports password hashes from the SAM file (C:/Windows/System32/Config), LC or LCS files, local or remote computers, etc. It uses decryption codes and three separate cracking algorithms, the dictionary attack, brute force attack, or a hybrid attack of both, to recover your lost Windows passwords. It also tasks the PC, so avoid using your PC until the crack is completed. One crucial drawback is that it requires that you have access to a user account before it can function.
Pros
- It’s a free Windows password recovery tool with a portable download size.
- No need to format or reinstall Windows.
- Supports most version of Windows.
- Provides different password recovery options contingent on the system being recovered.
- Uses two separate attack options or a hybrid of both.
- Recovers your original password.
Cons
- Requires access to a user account to function properly.
- Consumes too much of the PC’s resources.
- Has a slower recovery rate especially with longer password lengths.
- Not compatible with Windows 10 OS.
- Has a complex user interface.
Top 9. John The Ripper
John the Ripper is a primarily free and open-source Windows password recovery tool designed for individuals and commercial use. John the Ripper mainly uses the dictionary attack algorithm but also offers a brute force crack mode. It has unique features like creating custom wordlist files (customizable cracker) or specific permutation rules. Its dependence on command prompt makes it a complex tool for a Windows novice.
Pros
- The tool is entirely free.
- No need to format or reinstall Windows.
- Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, and other OS like Open VMS, Unix, and DOS.
- Allows users to make custom wordlist files easily.
- Easily detects weak passwords.
- Allows users to specify permutation rules.
Cons
- Wordlist files for password recovery aren’t free.
- Commands are typed manually.
- The interface isn’t user-friendly.
- Takes too long for strong passwords.
- Requires Windows access before use.
Windows Password Buster, while being last on this list, is by no means the worst Windows Password Recovery Tool you’d ever use. Contrarily, it is an extremely efficient tool that resets Windows passwords speedily without loss of user data. It is easy to use with a %100 recovery rate and allows you to backup password storage files before changing the password. There are three packages with varying prices and capabilities (Standard at $17.95, Professional at 27.95, and the Enterprise versions at 44.95).
Pros
- Allows you to backup your passwords or the Password storage file.
- No need to format or reinstall Windows.
- Is quick and efficient.
- Can recover previous passwords.
- Responsive technical support.
Cons
- Doesn’t support Windows 10.
- Doesn’t support Mac, Linux OS, etc.
Note: Most of these Windows password recovery tools run in bios (i.e., before the Windows OS boots up); it is essential that you first burn them into a CD/DVD or a USB drive if supported.
Conclusion
In the past, losing your Windows password would have been a permanent malaise source to the PC owner, but fortunately, those times are long gone. Many Windows password recovery tools claim to be the best, but these tools outlined above really do the job. Make your choice, whatever your needs, and you never have to miss that deadline or format your system because of a lost password!
Final Piece of Advice: The boy’s scout motto is simple: Be prepared! My advice to you would be that once you’ve chosen your ideal tool from the above options of Top 10 Best Windows Password Recovery Tool, create a password reset disk so that you can reset your Windows password on the go if you ever need it. This would save you the pain of losing access to your account for longer than is necessary.
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Buy Now(Pro)
Your computer is asking for a password to log in, and you can’t remember what it is. You’ve tried every combination of words you can think of, but nothing seems to work. Don’t panic! There are plenty of Windows password recovery tools out there that can help reset your Windows 10/11 password in minutes.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the 10 best password recovery tools available to regain access to your Windows.
Windows password recovery tool is a specialized program that helps you reset or recover lost or forgotten passwords for your Windows account.
These tools can work in different ways, depending on the specific requirements of your situation.
Some are designed to recover passwords from local accounts, while others can help reset passwords for a domain or Microsoft account.
After considering the above factors, here are some of the best Windows password recovery tools you should check out.
1. PassFab 4WinKey
Best for: A comprehensive Windows password recovery tool
Price: Standard: $19.95, Professional: $29.95, Enterprise: $39.95, Ultimate: $69.95
PassFab 4WinKey has over +190 m users, and it’s known to be one of the most comprehensive Windows password recovery tools in the market.
>> Get PassFab 4WinKey <<
It has four modes: delete a password, reset the password, delete an account, and create an account. So, you can use it to handle all your password recovery tasks as needed.
The tool also has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for anyone. It is easy to use: burn a reset CD or USB drive, plug it into the locked computer, and reset the password in minutes.
It supports Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP, and Windows Server; whatever version you have, PassFab 4WinKey can reset it.
PassFab 4WinKey has a 100% success rate, and it works by trying out all the possible password combinations to unlock your computer.
Another good thing about Windows Password Recovery is that it has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there’s nothing to lose when you choose this tool.
Pros
- 100% secure and no data loss recovery tool
- Easy to use
- Works on all Windows systems
- Provides customer support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Has several moods for different tasks
Cons
- Different licenses have different features
2. iSunshare Windows Password Genius
Best for: Make reset disks on Windows, Mac, and Android
Price: Standard: $19.95, Professional: $29.95, Advanced: $39.95, Raid: $79.95
iSunshare Windows Password Genius can recover your lost or forgotten Windows password in just a few minutes, regardless of its complexity.
It has two modes: delete a password and create a new account, making it very versatile. It also supports all versions of Windows from 11 to XP and all versions of Windows Server.
In addition, it can recover passwords for all types of computers, including desktop and laptop computers, from major brands.
Also, you can create a reset the disk on Windows, Mac, and Android, so regardless of your other device, you can use it to unlock your computer.
Pros
- Recover lost or forgotten Windows passwords with ease
- Support all versions of Windows
- Work on all types of computers
- Create a reset disk on Windows, Mac, and Android devices
- Two different modes
Cons
- The Raid version that contains all options is way too expensive
3. Stellar Password Recovery for Windows
Best for: Different operating systems password recovery
Price: Standard: $49, Technician: $199
Whether you’ve lost your administrator password or need to reset a user account password, this software makes it easy to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
Stellar Password Recovery for Windows enables you to select the Operating System (OS) to reset the login password.
So, if you have more than one OS installed on your systems, such as Windows and Linux, you can select the OS and then choose the account for which you want to reset the password.
The software can reset the login password for ‘Admin’ or other ‘User’ accounts on Microsoft Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, & Windows 7.
Stellar Password Recovery also offers BIOS and UEFI modes to boot the system using the bootable media.
The software offers a relatively straightforward and user-friendly GUI that lets users navigate the software and reset the Windows login passwords.
Pros
- Easily reset Windows login password regardless of the operating system installed
- Offers both BIOS and UEFI modes
- User-friendly GUI
- 100% safe and secure
Cons
- The Technician version is too expensive for most people
- Technical support is only available for 5 days
4. Passware Windows Key Basic
Best for: Password reset for local accounts, domain accounts
Price: Basic: $39, Standard: $79, Business: $295
This handy little program creates a password reset CD/USB drive that you can use to boot up your computer and reset your password instantly.
It supports all Windows Workstations, including Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Vista, and Vista SP1. And it fully supports Windows Servers (including 2019, 2016, etc.)
Passware Windows Key Basic has a 100% Pass Guarantee, so you can rest assured that it will get the job done.
The standard version of this program recognizes and recovers passwords for over 110 file types, including MS Word, Excel, PDF, Outlook, web browsers, and more.
So, it’s not just for Windows password reset but also for recovering lost or forgotten passwords for your most commonly used applications.
Pros
- Fully compatible with all versions of Windows
- Creates a password reset CD/USB drive
- 100% pass guarantee
- Easy to use
- Recover passwords for over 110 file types
Cons
- The business version is expensive
5. iToolab UnlockGo
Best for: Windows pin, fingerprint, and facial recognition locks
Price: Standard: $19.95, Professional: $29.95, Ultimate: $59.95
Whether you’ve lost your password or your account is locked, UnlockGo can bypass or change your password without reinstalling the system. Plus, there’s no risk of data loss!
In addition to removing/resetting Windows user, guest, admin, and domain passwords, UnlockGo can also reset Windows pins, fingerprints, and facial recognition locks.
Plus, it can reset RAID Server users, DSRM (Directory Services Restore Mode) accounts, and Active Directory users’ passwords.
iToolab UnlockGo is compatible with almost all Windows operating systems and Sever systems, and it is the easy answer to the password bypass problem for all laptops and desktops.
Pros
- Works with a wide range of password types, including pin, fingerprint, and facial recognition
- User-friendly and easy to use
- Compatible with all versions of Windows and Server systems
- No risk of data loss or corruption
- Delete or create new user accounts
Cons
- The free trial is kind of useless
6. PCUnlocker
Best for: All-in-one password bypassing solution for Windows
Price: Standard: $19.95, Professional: $29.95, Enterprise: $49.95
PCUnlocker is an all-in-one password-bypassing solution for Windows. It can reset your local administrator, user passwords, and domain administrator.
It can also remove logon time restrictions and disable a smartcard’s “Force Smart Card Login.”
Best of all, it’s straightforward to use. Boot up your PC with the PCUnlocker CD or USB drive and follow the instructions on the screen. Within seconds, you’ll be able to access your account and get back to work.
Pros
- Resets local, domain, and smartcard login credentials
- Easy to use
- Intuitive user interface
- Free technical support
- Compatible with all Windows versions
Cons
- It may take a bit more time to create bootable media.
7. Active@ Password Changer
Best for: Sharing with friends or colleagues
Price: Personal License: $49.95, Corporate License: $59.99, Unlimited License: $1499.00
Active@ Password Changer is a powerful yet straightforward program to reset your forgotten Windows password.
It’s compatible with all Windows versions and has great additional features like support for multiple languages and the ability to boot from BIOS or UEFI.
However, the price tag might be too high for some people. But it is sharable, so you can share the total price by adding 2 more users.
Pros
- Compatible with all Windows versions
- Easy to use
- Supports multiple languages
- Can boot from BIOS or UEFI
Cons
- Expensive
8. Ophcrack
Best for: Recovering shorter passwords
Price: Free
Ophcrack is one of the best password reset tools for recovering shorter passwords. It’s free, easy to use, supports Windows, Linux, and macOS, and doesn’t require additional purchases.
You don’t even need to log in to Windows to use it. Just download the ISO image, mount it on bootable media, and Ophcrack will automatically recover your password when you boot your PC.
Ophcrack cracking passwords based on “rainbow tables” uses less processing time than a brute-force attack. You can download these tables for free from the Ophcrack website.
Ophcrack is designed for average users with little knowledge of cracking passwords, so even if you have no experience with password recovery software, you should be able to use this program without any problems.
Pros
- Free
- Doesn’t require any additional purchases
- Easy to use
- Windows, Linux, and macOS support
- Real-time password analysis
Cons
- Can’t recover passwords longer than 14 characters
9. Trinity Rescue Kit
Best for: People comfortable with the command line
Price: Free
TRK is loaded with features specifically designed for repair and recovery operations on Windows, but it’s also equally helpful in dealing with Linux issues. And because it’s a live Linux distribution, it’s perfect for experienced users comfortable with the command line.
But TRK isn’t just a one-trick pony. It also comes with a suite of tools to help with computer repair and maintenance, including virus scanning integrations, a file cleaner, and an undeletion tool.
So whether you’re dealing with a crashed hard drive or simply trying to recover lost documents, Trinity Rescue Kit has you covered.
It also has extensive documentation to help walk you through every process step.
Pros
- Free
- Includes a suite of additional tools to help with computer repair and maintenance
- Good documentation
- Live Linux distribution that runs without installation
Cons
- You need some technical knowledge to use it
10. John the Ripper
Best for: IT professionals or systems admins
Price: Free with a Pro version for Linux and macOS
John the Ripper is a powerful password recovery tool that can crack passwords using brute force or rules, including dictionary attacks.
Before you get too excited, this tool isn’t for everyone and requires some command-line knowledge to set up and use properly. So if you are an IT professional or systems admin, John the Ripper is an excellent option.
This powerful software can help you crack 400+ passwords across various devices, making it a handy tool in your arsenal.
It’s also compatible with various platforms, so you can use it regardless of your operating system.
Finally, if you run into any trouble while using John the Ripper, there’s a mailing list where you can ask questions and get help from experts.
Finding relevant information is not always easy, but the list is active, and you can get answers.
Pros
- Free
- Compatible with various OS’es
- Powerful password-cracking tool
- Excellent for IT professionals
Cons
- Requires command-line knowledge to set up and use properly
- Difficult to set up
- Native applications are paid
Honorable Mentions
Spower Windows Password Reset
Spower Windows Password Reset is an all-in-one software that can help you reset forgotten passwords, domain passwords, and Microsoft account passwords for Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP.
With this Windows password reset tool, you can quickly regain access to your Windows system within minutes.
Besides, it allows you to easily create a new Administrator account or delete a user account.
Passper WinSenior
Passper WinSenior‘s advanced technology guarantees a 100% success rate in resetting or removing your Windows password.
You can delete or create new Windows accounts within seconds after entering the Preinstallation Environment.
Windows Password Recovery Bootdisk
This program can remove all lost Windows passwords or just a particular one, and it supports NT/2000/XP/2003/Vista/7/8.
Plus, it shows user names, LM, and NTLM password hashes, so you can see exactly what’s happening.
Windows Password Recovery Bootdisk also supports IDE / SATA / SCSI hard drives and FAT and NTFS file systems. So, whatever type of drives or files you use, Bootdisk covers you.
Lazesoft Recover My Password
This 100% recovery rate software is easy to install and use, with a convenient and straightforward user interface.
Whether you’ve forgotten your local administrator password or your Domain administrator password, Lazesoft Recover My Password can help.
It supports Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10. For server edition, it supports Windows 2003, 2008, 2008 R2, 2012, 2012 R2, 2016, and 2019.
Additionally, it has enhanced guides for resetting Windows Live ID user account passwords.
And if you have any questions or problems, it has FREE technical support that can help.
imyPass Windows Password Reset
imyPass Windows Password Reset is a professional Windows password tool that can remove or reset your administrator and user passwords without losing any data. It’s compatible with all versions of Windows from XP to 10, and three different editions are available depending on your needs.
KON-BOOT
Unlike other solutions, Kon Boot does not reset or modify user passwords, and all changes are reverted to the previous state after the system restart!
Two million people worldwide trust kon boot for its ability to bypass Windows hashcodes (live/online).
It has been successfully used by military personnel, law enforcement, professional IT corporations, forensics experts, and private customers.
Many tools make grand claims about how great they are and how well they work, yet they often fall short of expectations.
So, how do you select which Windows Password Recovery tool is best for you? Here are a few tips to help you.
Features
While some tools may help you access local accounts, they might not be as helpful for Microsoft or domain accounts.
So, think about what kind of account you need to reset, and look for a password recovery tool that supports the type of account you are using.
Also, some tools can reset passwords and create and delete entire accounts, while others only help you reset your password. You’ll want to consider these differences when making your choice.
Success rate
Of course, you wouldn’t want to spend time or money on a tool that doesn’t work.
That’s why you must ensure that the tool you choose is known to be 100% effective and has been tried and tested by others.
Ease of use
A good tool must be simple, even if you have no prior IT skills. In the end, you are just a regular user, and a complicated interface or instructions shouldn’t put you off.
So, ensure it has an easy-to-use interface and can guide you through the process.
Price
You must consider your budget before making a choice. Some tools can be pretty pricey, while others may better fit your situation.
The best bet is to look for a tool that gives you the needed features without breaking the bank.
Also, look for software that has a trial version or money-back guarantee in case it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Compatibility
The tool you choose must also be compatible with your operating system. If you’re using Windows 10/11, it should work flawlessly on your computer.
Otherwise, you’ll experience errors and other issues that can make the process more complicated than it needs to be.
Customer support
Finally, consider the customer support offered with the software you’re considering.
Some tools have excellent customer service, while others don’t offer much support.
This is crucial since you may need assistance in using the tool or troubleshooting problems when they happen.
How to Reset Windows 10/11 Password
There are several methods that you can use to reset a Windows 10/11 password.
Here is a comprehensive guide with different options depending on your specific needs and situation.
Option 1. Windows Password Recovery Tool
As mentioned in our guide, there are several Windows password recovery tools you can use to access your computer. In this step-by-step guide, I will use the recovery tool I prefer the most, PassFab 4WinKey.
>> Get PassFab 4WinKey <<
- Download and install PassFab 4WinKey on an acceptable computer.
- Launch PassFab 4WinKey.
- Insert the USB flash disk. Select the USB flash drive and click Next.
- Click Next to start burning the USB flash disk.
- Plug the USB flash disk into the locked computer.
- Click the power button to start the locked computer.
- When the computer logo on the screen lights up, enter the boot menu.
- Choose the USB boot disk to boot.
- After PassFab 4WinKey starts, select the system and click Next.
- Four modes are available: delete a password, reset the password, delete an account and create an account. Choose the one you want and click Next.
- Wait for the password to be removed and click Reboot.
Option 2. Microsoft Account Recovery in Windows
When you forget your Microsoft account password, you can recover it through the process below:
- You will see the “I forgot my password” link when you open your Windows. Click it.
- Confirm your email address, choose the method you want to reset your password, and click Get code.
- Enter the security code you received by email or text and click Next.
- Choose a new password and then click Next.
- Click the sign-in button. It will take you to the sign-in screen. Enter your new password to open your computer.
Option 3. Microsoft Account Recovery Online
You can also reset your Microsoft account password online. Here’s how:
- Open a web browser and visit the Microsoft account website.
- Click Sign in.
- Enter your email address and click Next.
- Press Forgot password.
- Enter your Microsoft account email and a recovery email, then click Next.
- Enter the code you received and then click Verify.
- Fill in the correct information about your Microsoft account and click Next.
- After submitting the correct information, Microsoft will send a link for resetting the password. Open the link.
- Type your new password and click Next.
Option 4. Password Reset Disk
A Reset Disk is a CD/DVD or USB drive that contains a backup of your Windows logon information. If you’ve set one up in the past, you can use it to reset your Windows password. Here’s how:
- Insert the Reset Disk into your computer.
- In the sign-in window, type any password and click Enter.
- The Reset password button will appear now. Click it.
- Click Next.
- Choose the drive where the Reset Disk is inserted, and click Next.
- Type the new password for your account, confirm it, then click Next.
- Sign in with your new password.
Option 5. Windows Boot Disc or USB Drive
If you haven’t set up a Reset Disk but have a Windows boot disc or USB drive, you can still use it to reset your password. Here’s how:
- Insert the Windows boot disc/USB drive into your computer.
- Restart the computer and boot from the Windows boot disc or USB drive.
- When the Disc/USB menu appears, followed by the Microsoft Windows page, press Shift + F10.
- The command prompt window will open. Type the following command and press Enter <move c:\windows\system32\utilman.exe c:\windows\system32\utilman.exe.bak copy c:\windows\system32\cmd.exe c:\windows\system32\utilman.exe>
- Replace “c” with the letter of your Windows drive.
- Unplug the Windows boot media from your computer and reboot it.
- When the sign-in screen appears, click the Ease of Access button.
- The command prompt window will open. Type the following command and press Enter: net user <username> <password>
- Replace “username” with the username of your account and “password” with the new password you want to set.
- Close the command prompt and sign in with your new password.
Option 6. Local Account with Security Questions
If you’ve already set up security questions for your local account, you can also use them to reset your password. Here’s how:
- Go to the login screen, type any password, and click Enter.
- Click the Reset password button.
- The security questions will appear. Answer the security questions, and click Enter.
- Set a new password for your account, confirm it, and press Enter.
- Sign in with your new password.
Option 7. Safe Mode
The Safe Mode is another way for you to reset your password. However, you must know the password of any other administrator account on your computer. Here’s how:
- Press the Shift button on your keyboard as you click Restart on the sign-in screen.
- Go to Click Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart.
- Click F6 to enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command: net user username newpassword.
- Replace “username” with the username of your account and “newpassword” with the new password you want to set.
- Close the Command Prompt window, then sign in with your new password.
Frequently Asked Questions About Windows Password Recovery
What are the Differences Between a Microsoft Account and a Local Account?
Microsoft account is linked to your email address and provides access to various Microsoft services, such as OneDrive, Outlook, Xbox Live, and more.
You can access this account from any computer or device with your email address and password.
On the other hand, a local account is used for accessing the Windows operating system itself and does not come with any additional features or services.
Can I Recover My Windows 10 Password without Third-party Tools?
Yes, you can. However, you will need prerequisites like a Password Recovery Disk to reset the password.
What Is Password Reset Disk?
A password reset disk is a tool you can use to reset your Windows password if you forget it. It is typically created by saving the password to a USB drive or other removable media.
Will Windows Password Recovery Cause Data Loss?
Windows password recovery will not cause any data loss, and it is specifically designed to help you reset your password without losing data.
What is the Best Password Recovery Software for You?
There is no single “best” password recovery software, as different tools are best suited for different situations.
When choosing a password recovery tool, you should consider factors such as the operating system you are trying to reset the password for, whether or not it supports your current hardware configuration, and whether or not you need additional features.
Depending on your needs, you can choose the right tool.
Is Windows Password Recovery Software Legal?
Yes. But only if you use the programs to recover the password of your Windows computer. Or someone who has given you consent to bypass the password.
Is Using a Windows Password Recovery Tool Safe?
While we cannot ensure that all the programs available on the internet, the ones mentioned in this list have kind words from the tech critics, and user reviews indicate the same.
Conclusion
By choosing one of the best password recovery tools mentioned above, you can safely reset your Windows 10 or 11 password and regain access to your computer.
Whether you have a Microsoft or a local account, all these tools are easy to use and provide reliable results. So don’t hesitate to give them a try.
Also Read:
- Best iPhone Unlocker Software
- Best Android Pattern Unlock Tools
- Best Excel Password Recovery Tools
- Best Word Password Recovery Software
- Best RAR Password Crackers
- Best ZIP Password Crackers
Are you looking for the most effective Windows password recovery software? Many free and premium Windows password recovery program is described below to assist in the recovery of administrator and regular user passwords.
You don’t have to worry if you lost or forgot your Windows password. The sole purpose of this article is to assist you with using the free Windows password recovery service to restore your Windows passwords.
- The Best Free Windows Password Reset
- John The Ripper
- Cain & Able
- LCP
- Knoppix STD
- Knoppix STD
- Top Paid Windows Password Recovery Tools
- PassFab 4WinKey: The Best Password Recovery Tools without Data Loss
- Spower Windows Password Reset
- iSunshare Windows Password Genius
- Passper Winsenior
- Windows Password Recovery Bootdisk
- Which Paid Password Recovery Tools Should You Pick
The Best Free Windows Password Reset
In the event that you forget your password, these password recovery tools will come in handy. Since hackers use these programs for unauthorized activities, they are often referred to as password crackers. However, you should still use these resources responsibly, restricting their use to getting access to your own devices only.
Ophcrack
This password recovery tool is efficient and open-source, making it one of the best Window password recovery tool free available. The Ophcrack Windows Password Recovery program has been developed on a faster time memory compromise of Reebou tables for force-splitting, as well as the use of real-time graphs to avoid using password prompts.
Pros:
- Uses Brute force model to crack passwords
- No installation is required since you can use a disc or flash drive
- Compatible with Windows and macOS systems
Cons:
- Needs to boot the media and may cause problems.
John The Ripper
John the Ripper, the most recent addition to the series, is a free password recovery software that can be used for both personal and commercial purposes. The Attack Dictionary algorithm is used mainly by John The Ripper, but a brute force crack approach is also available.
Pros:
- Small download size and easy to use
- Supports more than hundreds of hash and cipher types
- Can upgrade to commercial version anytime
Cons:
- Need admin account to login and process is difficult
Cain & Able
Cain & Abel is a free windows password reset USB that decrypts and decodes passwords for a variety of offline applications and network services. Cain and Abel are designed from the ground up to assist people who have forgotten passwords for some of their most-used applications on their home PC.
Pros:
- Efficient decoding algorithms
- Extensive decryption software
- Uses sophisticated algorithms and WinPcap
- Provide extra protection for your own passwords
Cons:
- Not suitable for beginners
LCP
LCP Windows Password Cracker is a versatile free password recovery tool that imports password hashes from SAM files (C: / Windows / System32 / Config), LC or LCS files, local or remote computers, and more.
Pros:
- Includes Dictionary Assault & Brutal Force Attack
- Easy to use and much more effective to recover password
- Imports password hashes from SAM files (LC/LCS files/local files)
Cons:
- You can’t use your computer until the password crack is complete
Knoppix STD
STD (Security Tools for Linux) is a free password reset tool. It is, in reality, a set of hundreds, if not thousands, of open-source security resources.
It’s a Live Linux Distro, which ensures it runs in memory from a bootable CD without modifying the host computer’s native operating system.
Pros:
- ISTD is intended for both beginner and experienced security professionals
- Suitable for Linux operating systems
- Doesn’t modify the current operating system
Cons:
- Not suitable for beginners, requires technical knowledge
The following are some of the top paid password recovery tools.
PassFab 4WinKey: The Best Password Recovery Tools without Data Loss
It is one of the outstanding Windows password recovery tools. It is very quick and has an excellent user interface, even for those who are new to computers. This is compatible with every Windows version. You can actually make a Windows password reset disc, and it uses the decryption codes.
It does not limit the recovery mechanism depending on the duration or difficulty of the password, which was a major factor in our decision to include PassFab 4WinKey on this list.
- Firstly download the product on your PC/Mac which is accessible to you.
-
Now, connect a CD/DVD/USB Flash drive with the computer and click on the burn option. It will create a recovery disk with PassFab 4WinKey.
- Now insert the CD/DVD/USB Flash drive to the system whose password you want to reset or recover. When you insert the bootable disc, reboot the device and press F12 to get to the Boot menu interface.
-
When the boot is successful, you will be navigated to the Windows Password Recovery main interface. From there you can select whether you want to reset, recover or remove your password.
- You are now free to set a new password for your Windows operating system. Just click on the Reset Your Password option and you will be done.
Spower Windows Password Reset
Spower Windows Password Reset allows you to create a bootable password reset USB drive so that you can reset your Windows password in minutes with minimal effort and information loss. It can also reset the passwords for all user accounts, whether they be an administrator or local accounts.
Pros:
- Easy to use and requires minimal effort
- Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 8.1, 7, and XP
- Recover passwords for all user accounts
Cons:
- Takes time to complete process
iSunshare Windows Password Genius
Windows Passius Genius from iSunshare is a small Windows passwords recovery software that deals with all Windows versions.
It also comes in four separate editions, each with its own price and features (standard is $19.95, Professional is $29.95, Advanced is $39.95, and RAID is $79.95), and can be stored on a CD/DVD or USB drive. To restore your keys, you don’t need access to Windows.
Pros:
- Create a CD/DVD password reset disc
- Reset password for WindowsOS and Windows Servers
- Come with a basic tutorial
Cons:
- Limited option in free trial
Passper Winsenior
Passper Winsenior is a powerful and fast Windows password recovery software. With Windows Reebou tables, it does exceptionally well.
It has a few key functions, including the ability to delete, modify, and create user accounts and passwords.
Pros:
- 100% accurate and fast
- Recovers complex passwords of any length
- Money-back guarantee if you fail to recover password
Windows Password Recovery Bootdisk
Windows Password Recovery Bootdisk is a Windows password reset tool that helps you to retrieve a forgotten Windows account password and to use the recovered hashes for more advanced cracking (though not for beginners, however).
Pros:
- Recovers all lost Windows password easily
- Supports IDE / SATA / SCSI hard drives and FAT
- Instant Windows password removal
Cons:
- Windows 10 not supported
Which Paid Password Recovery Tools Should You Pick
Tools | Performance | Versatility | Ease-of-Use |
---|---|---|---|
Ophcrack | Good | Functionality only limited to password recovery | Suitable for beginners |
John The Ripper | Highly effective | Provide functionalities other than password recovery | Not suitable for beginners |
Cain & Able | Not much effective | Versatile features | Some technical knowledge required |
LCP | Highly effective | Provides many additional features | Simple to use |
Knoppix STD | Moderately effective | Limited to few features of Linux | Only recommended for experts |
PassFab 4WinKey | Highly effective and best recovery tool | Provides a lot of additional features | Suitable for beginners |
Spower | Good | Limited features | Simple to use |
iSunshare | Highly effective | Provides additional features | Easy but requires a lot of time |
Passper Winsenior | Not much effective | Limited features and functions | Suitable for beginners |
Password Recovery Boot disk | Not much effective | Only limited to password recovery | Technical knowledge required |
Summary
Many free Windows password reset tools guarantee that their customers will be able to restore their passwords in the most efficient manner possible. You will find some truly impressive recovery software in the resources mentioned above that is useful in any way. Among those tools, PassFab 4WinKey is the best windows password recovery tool and highly recommended for beginners.
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Nowadays, passwords are more important than ever. You basically cannot log in to your Windows 10 or 11 computer without entering it (or without performing some tricks). And if you lost it, there are some password recovery tools that can help you out.
When a password is required to log in to your machine, the worst thing that can possibly happen is to lose it.
If this happened, it seems like there’s no other solution than clean installing your system again. Well, that doesn’t have to be the case, because there are ways to recover it.
In this article, we’re going to talk about various password recovery software for Windows 10 and 11. These specialized tools can help you solve your problem quickly, in case you’ve lost it and you’re unable to log in to your computer.
NOTE
Password recovery tools are specialized software used for recovering and resetting passwords. Take advantage of them only for personal use.
Why should you use a Windows password?
The main reason why you should create a password on your Windows OS is privacy. These days, there are a lot of security risks in the digital world, the main one being hackers.
Passwords are the first line of defense against any kind of unauthorized access. This means that you can protect your computer from being used by somebody else in your absence.
Setting up a password is mandatory when you’re working on a company housing multiple employees in the same office.
Additionally, it will protect you from hackers who are trying to access the PC while you’re being away. Having a password will make it harder (and in some cases, impossible) for them to steal your data.
What is the best password recovery software for Windows 10?
- Stellar Password Recovery – Overall best password recovery tool
- Password Kit Standard – Easy to use
- Windows Password Unlocker Bundle – Compatible with all Windows versions
- Windows Password Reset Standard – Versatile password reset tool
- Active Password Changer Professional – For Commercial use
- Ophcrack – Fast and accurate
- Offline NT password and Registry Editor – Complete password eraser
- LCP – Different password recovery modes
- Hash Suite – For professional use
- John the Ripper – Different OS compatibility
- PassFab 4WinKey – Works with Microsoft accounts
Stellar Password Recovery
When it comes to data recovery, you simply cannot go wrong with the most trusted software in the industry.
From memory cards to USB and RAW storage drivers, whatever the storage media, be it internal or external, you can easily retrieve your assets even if they were affected by corruption or malware infection with this amazing tool.
Powerful and reliable, the software is also incredibly easy to use – just launch the app and start scanning to retrieve your precious files.
The software is compatible with all Windows-based storage media and most popular file formats, including photo and video.
Easily retrieve information from corruption-affected hard drivers, formatted partitions, severe cases of data loss, and more.
You can also use filters to sort out the data that needs to be retrieved. There are different scanning methods, such as Deep Scan and Quick Scan.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- Recover data on RAW drive volumes
- Compatible with all Windows-based storage media
- Supports most file formats
- Deep Scan and Quick Scan modes are available
- Filters to easily sort the data that needs retrieving
Stellar Password Recovery
Reliable and efficient data recovery under any circumstance. Any storage media, any format, any state.
Passware Kit Standard
Passware Kit Standard creates a bootable media that you can use on startup to recover your password.
The program is very simple to use, and it can even recover both local (standard version) and domain admin account (Enterprise edition only) passwords.
This tool provides faster password recovery for TrueCrypt, Android, Zip, and many other types of files, decrypts Apple File System (APFS) disks and macOS High Sierra Keychains.
Regarding speed, GPU-accelerated password recovery is now up to 350% faster for TrueCrypt system partitions. The software has plenty of power plans catered for different businesses, sizes, and even home use.
You can use a free trial of the program to create bootable media, but you won’t be able to recover any passwords until you pay for the full version.
Passware Kit Standard utilizes your computer’s hardware to increase its processing power and provide instantaneous results.
Additionally, the software was used in high-profile investigations by NASA, Deloitte, and the U.S. Departments of Justice and Security.
The best thing about this tool is that you don’t need to be an IT expert, everyone can handle it.
Let’s check out some of its best features:
- 80+ file types supported
- Resets Windows admin passwords
- Works instantly
- Utilizes the installed hardware
- Provides a password history
Passware Kit Standard
Undo the mistakes of forgetting credentials with the #1 tool for decrypting files and quickly recovering passwords.
Windows Password Unlocker Bundle
One of the premium software on our list is Windows Password Unlocker. This tool uses bootable media to recover passwords on startup.
If for any reason you have any of the email passwords lost or unavailable, you can easily recover them in a snap with Password Unlocker Bundle.
What’s not so encouraging about this software is that it requires Professional or Enterprise versions to actually be able to retrieve any passwords, as the Standard version is only used for creating bootable media.
The Password Unlocker is a technology made to recover passwords for Microsoft Office, Windows, PDF, RAR, ZIP, PDF, and more.
It can also recover email passwords for Outlook and those cached in the browser. Don’t worry about compatibility. As long as you are using it on any Windows version, you’re going to have no issues.
Note that it only takes a second for the application to successfully recover any lost password for chatting tools such as MSN, AOL, or GoogleTalk.
You might think that the price is a little bit high, but you have to keep in mind that this bundle will recover passwords for a wide variety of software, which is a big plus.
Here’s a list of the app’s best features:
- Compatibility with all Windows versions
- Works with all MS Office products
- Supports a wide variety of file formads
- Simple and intuitive UI
- Also recovers lost passwords for popular chatting apps
Windows Password Unlocker
If you’ve forgotten the password to your Windows PC, use this tool to recover it and log back in!
Windows Password Reset Standard
Another premium software on our list is Windows Password Reset Standard. The only requirement is a new CD/DVD to install it on.
This tool also deletes your password instead of recovering it, working similarly to previous options of this kind from the list.
However, Windows Password Reset Standard is a lot simpler than others, but it also comes with fewer options. To start using it, just download an ISO file, mount it, and start resetting your password.
As this tool comes with fewer features than Active Password Changer Professional, it is also available for a smaller price.
If you want to buy Windows Password Reset Standard, know that the software is affordable, even if there aren’t multiple price plans available.
There’s even a trial version for you to check out and test before purchasing or upgrading to a paid one, so feel free to give that a go as well if you’re not sure yet.
Check out some of its core features:
- 100% success rate
- 24/7 technical support available
- 90 days money back guarantee
- Free updates for a lifetime
- Compatible with all Windows versions
⇒ Get Windows Password Reset Standard
Active Password Changer Professional
If you want to try some of the more commercial solutions, the first premium password cracking software for Windows 10 on the list is Active Password Changer Professional.
It’s extremely easy to set up and use, which is good news for novice users. If you are using Windows 7 you can recover your password with tools such as these.
Active Password Changer Professional acts as a paid, but much simpler version of Offline NT Password & Registry Editor, so it deletes your password instead of recovering it.
So, if you want a simple yet powerful program to delete your forgotten password almost immediately, Active Password Changer Professional is perhaps the best choice.
Unfortunately, you’ll need to pay to use it, but there are many price plan options that you can order, and some of them are really affordable.
Let’s see its awesome features:
- Resets Windows user passwords
- Improved & user friendly UI
- Compatible with all Windows versions
- BIOS & UEFI boot media modes
- Supports multiple languages
⇒ Get Active Password Changer Professional
Ophcrack
By all charts and based on the experience of many users, Ophcrack is arguably one of the best Windows password recovery tools you can find.
It’s extremely effective, fast, and simple even for first-time users. This tool is so powerful that it doesn’t even require you to log in to Windows to be able to achieve your goal.
You just download the ISO image, mount it on bootable media, and it will automatically recover your password when you boot your PC.
The program will start, then it will locate your Windows (Microsoft) Account and begin the retrieval process immediately.
According to tests, Ophcrac is able to get your password back in minutes. And keep in mind that Ophcrack is completely free!
You should know that using the software requires a certain level of background knowledge. The recovery process is a bit tedious if it’s done manually, but the live CD version of it automates most of it so you don’t need to worry.
The preference menu gives you a few more options that help with the password cracking process, such as throttling the app’s use of your CPU and disk drivers while it’s working.
So, if you want to download Ophcrack, you can grab it for free at no additional cost. It will crack simple passwords in a matter of minutes or complex ones in a matter of hours.
Here are some of its main features:
- Free
- Supports all Windows versions
- LiveCD cracks LM hashes
- Open-source
- Real-time graphs to analyze passwords
⇒ Get Ophcrack
Offline NT Password & Registry Editor
Offline NT Password & Registry Editor is another password recovery tool compatible with all the Windows versions.
In fact, it doesn’t recover your password. Instead, it erases it completely so you can set up a new one normally (and remember it this time), which makes it a unique tool on our list.
It works similarly to Ophcrack: you download an ISO file, mount it to a bootable media, plug it in your computer, and the process can start.
Windows stores its user information, including encrypted passwords, in a file called sam. The file is part of the Windows Registry found in the system32 config file, and it’s not easily accessible.
Thankfully, this Offline NT password and Registry editor can read and understand the contents of the file, decrypt and ultimately remove the password.
It’s even faster than Ophcrack because usually, it resets a password immediately. However, Offline NT Password & Registry Editor is not so easy to use for an average user, because it requires some command line work.
If you manage to get around the unusual interface, there’s no better password-deleting tool you can find. Offline NT Password & Registry Editor is available for free, and you can download it from the link below.
Some of its core features include:
- Built on the CMD UI
- Works on any bootable media
- Supports al Windows versions
- Doesn’t need an internet connection
- Resets passwords of any complexity
⇒ Get Offline NT Password & Registry Editor
LCP
LCP is another free User Account Control password-recovering tool. But unlike the previous entries from the list, this one requires you to have access to a user account on a computer.
So, if you can’t access your user account, get back to one of the tools from above. It works with multiple operating systems, including Windows and Linux.
As for the program itself, it uses three methods of cracking your password: a dictionary attack, a brute force attack, or a hybrid dictionary/brute force attack.
Each method has its own benefits but you’ll need some basic knowledge of the matter to be able to perform any of these actions.
LCP can use a lot of resources from your computer while recovering a password, so it is advisable that you don’t use your machine for anything else during the process.
Moreover, the tool supports different languages such as Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Russian.
When it comes to updates, we have to admit that the program is not being changed frequently, but could only mean it doesn’t require any adjusting since it’s that good. The last update happened on the 28th of May, 2018, when version 1.5.0 was released.
Let’s see the software’s best features:
- Multi-language support
- Works with all Windows versions
- Has multiple methods of cracking passowrds
- Free
- Simple and comprehensive interface
⇒ Get LCP
Hash Suite
Hash Suite is a tool for advanced password crackers. This program’s purpose is to test the security of password hashes, and of course, crack them.
It offers deep analysis, reports, and statistics. Basically anything you need to manage your passwords and hashes.
Keep in mind that it is extremely powerful and considered one of the fastest password crackers on the market. It has a simple design, and an easy-to-use user interface only adds up to the functionality of this tool.
As we said, this tool is not for beginners because it requires employing a pwdump tool to gain the necessary hashes for Hash Suite to crack.
Heat Suite can support up to 13 types of hash, including NTLM, LM, SHA-1, SHA-256, MD5, SHA-512, DCC, DCC2, SSHA, md5crypt, bcrypt, sha512crypt, and sha256crypt.
The software also uses network traffic capture file formats imported by WiFi WPA PSK (also known as pre-shared key).
So, if you’re not familiar with these terms, it’s better to look for another option. But if you know what you’re doing, check out the list of possible pwdump tools. If you want to download Hash Suite, you can do so for free from the link below.
The program gets constantly updated with minor tweaks or major feature improvements. You can find the changelogs containing all of these updates on their website.
Check out the software’s most notable features:
- High performance
- Completely free
- Intuitive UI
- Compatible with all Windows versions
- Offers reports with statistics
⇒ Get Hash Suite
John the Ripper
John the Ripper is a free program, technically, though it requires the special wordlists to discover passwords that, of course, are available for a certain price.
However, you might find some free wordlist alternatives that are compatible with John the Ripper, but we’re not sure how these will perform.
Keep in mind that this software can reset the passwords for multiple operating systems such as Windows, Unix Flavours (Linux, *BSD, Solaris, ATX, etc), macOS, web apps such as WordPress, and more.
This tool is also aimed at advanced users, because it also uses a command-line environment, that average users will probably find hard to understand.
John the Ripper utilizes a special smart mode that tries probable password candidates first, instead of the widely used brute-force that doesn’t take the complexity and simplicity of a password into account.
When it comes to compatibility and system requirements, the app is not picky, and it works well with both integrated GPUs from Intel and AMD CPU cards, or dedicated ones such as the GTX 970, etc.
Note that John the Ripper is completely free, so you can grab it right now without being charged any dime!
Let’s have a look at its best features:
- Smart mode included
- Resets passwords for all operating systems
- Works with WordPress and other software as well
- Simple to use
- Minimalist interface
⇒ Get John the Ripper
PassFab 4WinKey
If you are looking for a trusty password recovery and reset tool for Windows 10, you should definitely check out PassFab 4WinKey.
With a simple click, create a Windows password reset disk by inserting a USB, CD, or DVD. The process is simple and absolutely free.
Additionally, you can remove old user accounts that aren’t needed anymore, even if you don’t have permission to do it.
In the same manner, the software lets you set up new accounts with admin accounts in case you lost access to the user account.
The software will bypass any restrictions without needing a password, no matter if the account is an administrator or a normal user.
It also works with Microsoft accounts! No need for any extra security info. Just use PassFab 4WinKey and recover lost credentials.
More so, the app works with Windows Servers as well. If you no longer have access to it, this neat software will solve the problem.
The process is quite simple, and the app is compatible with Windows Server 2019, 2012, and 2008, no matter what kind of RAID server it is.
Tip
You can get the product for 30% off by using the coupon PFULTI during the purchase!
Let’s have a look at the app’s main features:
- Access locked computers
- Create or delete accounts
- Remove the admin/user local passwords
- Create Windows password reset disks
- Reset lost Microsoft account passwords
⇒ Get PassFab 4WinKey
Now that you probably used one of these tools to remove your old password, it is time to set another one for security reasons.
Setting up a password in Windows 10 isn’t hard, but make sure you don’t lose it this time. In case that happens, you can always use one of the many apps included in this list.
All the recommendations made in the article will work in these scenarios as well:
- Windows 10 password recovery tool – A reset tool is also known as a recovery tool.
- password finder Windows 10 – If you need to find your lost passwords, a password reset tool will do the job.
- Windows 10 administrator password tool – If there are no other admins that can reset the password for you, feel free to do it all alone with one of the mentioned programs.
- Windows 10 password cracker – Sometimes these tools are referred to as password crackers since they might be used by illegitimate users.
- Windows 10 password remover – While you can’t permanently remove the password, you can replace it with a new one.
- Windows 10 password reset USB free download – Most of the free tools recommended are installed on a USB that you boot up from.
How do you set up a password on Windows 10?
- Go to the Start Menu, type in Settings and select it.
- Select Accounts.
- Then, choose Sign-in options, and Password.
- Now, enter the password you chose twice.
- You can also create a hint to help you remember.
Make sure you never lose the Windows password again
If you want to remember the password you set for the administrator account on Windows, the best way to go about it is to create a memorable one.
Pick a topic, something meaningful that you know won’t slip away from your mind in time. Additionally, setting up a clever password hint that only you will be able to figure out is another good idea.
Lastly, you can install a password manager that will keep track of all of your passwords. They use encrypted files and other security measures to make sure all of your data is safe and won’t get stolen, so don’t worry about that.
That’s it for our list of the best password recovery tools. As you can see, all these programs are different in terms of power, usability, recovery methods, price, and more. So if you know exactly what you want, you can choose one based on your needs.
In order to avoid situations where you need to recover your Windows 10 password, we recommend you use a good password manager. It will not only help you manage your passwords, but it will also let you know when one of them is weak.
If you have one of the most often encountered problems – you can’t type the password, just check our guide and fix it.
Also, if your problem refers to a lost email account, here are the best software choices for email password recovery.
Do you agree with our list or do you have some other software to add? Tell us in the comments section below.
Milan Stanojevic
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He’s a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology.
Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he’s one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.