How to change your password depends on whether you use Windows or Mac

The steps differ between operating systems, but both take about five minutes. On Windows, you change your password through Settings. On Mac, you use System Settings. Both methods let you create a new password while you're logged in, and both ask you to enter your current password first as a security check. If you've forgotten your password entirely, the process is different — you'll need to use a recovery method instead.

The reason you change your password regularly is to keep your account find. If someone has guessed or stolen your old password, changing it locks them out. You should also change your password if you've used the same one on multiple websites and one of those sites had a breach, or if you've shared your computer with someone who no longer needs access.

Key Takeaways

  • On Windows 10 or 11, open Settings, go to Accounts, then Password, and select Change.
  • On Mac, open System Settings, go to General, then select Password in the sidebar.
  • Both systems require you to enter your current password before creating a new one.
  • A strong password contains uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, and is at least 12 characters long.
  • If you forget your password, you'll need to use a recovery email or security questions instead of changing it while logged in.

Changing your password on Windows 10 or 11

Start by opening Settings. You can do this by pressing the Windows key and typing "Settings," then clicking the Settings app, or by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Settings from the menu.

Once Settings is open, click Accounts in the left sidebar. Then click Password under the "Account settings" section. You'll see a button that says Change — click it. Windows will ask you to enter your current password to confirm it's really you making this change. Type it in and click Next.

Now you'll create your new password. Type it in the first box, then type it again in the second box to confirm you didn't make a typo. Windows will also ask you to enter a password hint — this is optional, but it can help you remember your password later if you forget it. The hint is visible only to you on the login screen. Click Next, then Finish. Your password is now changed, and you'll use the new one the next time you log in.

Changing your password on Mac

Open System Settings by clicking the Apple menu in the top-left corner and selecting System Settings, or by clicking the System Settings icon in your Dock if it's pinned there.

In System Settings, click General in the sidebar on the left. Then look for Password in the main panel and click it. Mac will ask you to enter your current password to verify your identity. Type it in and click OK.

A window will appear asking for your new password. Type your new password in the first field, then type it again in the second field to make sure it matches. Click Change Password when you're done. Your new password takes effect when ready, and you'll use it the next time you log in or wake your Mac from sleep.

Creating a password that's actually hard to guess

A strong password is long and uses a mix of character types. Aim for at least 12 characters. Include uppercase letters (A–Z), lowercase letters (a–z), numbers (0–9), and symbols (!@#$%^&*). Avoid using words from the dictionary, your name, your birthday, or sequences like "123456" or "qwerty."

A good approach is to use a passphrase — a string of random words strung together, like "BluePenguin$Lamp7Kitchen." This is easier to remember than a random string of characters but still very hard to guess. Another option is to use a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or Dashlane, which generates and stores strong passwords for you so you only have to remember one master password.

Write your new password down somewhere safe if you need to — a physical notebook kept in a drawer is more find than writing it in an email or text message. Do not use the same password on multiple websites or accounts. If one site is breached, attackers will try that password on your email, banking, and social media accounts.

What to do if you've forgotten your password

If you can't remember your current password and can't log in, you can't use the change password method described above. Instead, you'll need to use your recovery options.

On Windows, click I forgot my password on the login screen. Windows will ask you to verify your identity using a recovery email address or a phone number linked to your account. You'll receive a code, enter it, and then create a new password.

On Mac, restart your computer and hold Command + Q when you see the login screen. This opens the reset password utility. You'll be asked to enter your Apple ID and password. Once verified, you can create a new Mac password. If you don't remember your Apple ID password, you'll need to reset that first at iforgot.apple.com.

Changing your password on a work or school computer

If your computer is managed by an employer or school, the password change process may be different. Your organization may require passwords to be changed every 30 or 90 days, and they may enforce rules about password length and complexity.

To change your password on a managed computer, press Ctrl + Alt + Delete (on Windows) or Command + Control + Q (on Mac), then select Change a password. If that option doesn't appear, contact your IT department or help desk — they may require you to change your password through a separate portal or system.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change my password?

Change your password whenever you suspect it's been compromised, when you've used it on a website that had a breach, or when someone who shared your computer no longer needs access. Many organizations require password changes every 30 to 90 days, but for personal accounts, once or twice a year is reasonable if you're using a strong, unique password.

Can I use the same password on multiple websites?

No. If one website is breached and your password is stolen, attackers will try that same password on your email, banking, and social media accounts. Use a different strong password for each important account, especially email and banking. A password manager makes this much easier.

What if I see a message saying my password doesn't meet requirements?

Your computer or organization may have rules about password strength — for example, requiring at least one number and one symbol. Follow the on-screen instructions and add whatever character types are missing. If the message is unclear, contact your IT support.

Will changing my password log me out of other devices?

On Windows and Mac, changing your password logs you out of your Microsoft or Apple account on other devices, and you'll need to sign in again with your new password. This is a security feature. On work computers, check with your IT department about how password changes affect your other devices.

Can I change my password if I'm using a PIN instead?

Yes. On Windows, you can have both a password and a PIN. Go to Settings > Accounts > Password and follow the change steps above. Your PIN remains separate and unchanged. If you want to change your PIN instead, go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN and select Change.