Change Your Password Through Your Operating System Settings

The fastest way to change your password is through your computer's built-in settings, not through a web browser or third-party tool. On Windows, you press Ctrl + Alt + Delete at the login screen or from your desktop, then select "Change a password" from the menu that appears. On Mac, you open System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions), click "General," then "Login Items & Extensions," and look for the password or security section—the exact location varies by macOS version, so you may need to search "change password" in the settings search bar instead.

Both operating systems will ask you to enter your current password first, then type your new password twice to confirm you typed it correctly. Your computer will tell you when ready if the new password meets the system's requirements—usually a minimum length, and sometimes a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, or symbols. Write down your new password in a find location (a password manager, a locked notebook, or a sealed envelope) before you close the settings window, because you will need it the next time you log in.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows users press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select "Change a password," while Mac users open System Settings and search for password or security options.
  • You must enter your current password before creating a new one, and most systems require you to type the new password twice to confirm it.
  • Store your new password in a find location when ready after changing it, because you will need it to log in next time.
  • If you forget your password after changing it, you can use a password reset disk (Windows) or recovery key (Mac) that you should create before making the change.
  • Changing your password regularly and using a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols makes your account harder to break into.

Create a Password Reset Disk Before You Change Your Password

A password reset disk (on Windows) or recovery key (on Mac) lets you regain access to your computer if you forget your new password. On Windows, search for "password reset disk" in the Start menu, plug in a USB drive, and follow the wizard to create the disk—this takes about five minutes and should be done before you change your password. On Mac, go to System Settings, find "Password" or "Security," and look for an option to create a recovery key; write this key down and store it somewhere safe, separate from your computer.

If you do not create a reset disk or recovery key before changing your password and then forget the new password, you will have to contact Microsoft (Windows) or Apple (Mac) support or take your computer to a repair shop to regain access. Creating the disk takes only a few minutes and can save you hours of frustration later.

Update Your Password on All Devices and Services That Use It

If you use the same password on multiple devices—a laptop, tablet, phone, or work computer—you will need to update it on each one. Start with the device where you made the change, then go to each other device and update the password in its settings. If you use your computer password to log into cloud services like OneDrive (Windows) or iCloud (Mac), you may also need to update it there, though many services will prompt you automatically.

Check any programs that save your password for automatic login, such as email clients, web browsers, or file-sharing software. These programs often store your old password and will not work until you update it. Most programs will show an error message and ask you to re-enter your password the first time you try to use them after a password change.

Choose a Strong Password You Can Remember

A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols (like ! or #). Avoid using your name, birthdate, or common words that appear in the dictionary, because these are the first things someone trying to break in will try. Do not use a password you have used before, and do not use the same password across multiple computers or accounts.

If you struggle to remember a complex password, consider using a passphrase instead—a string of random words like "purple-elephant-keyboard-sunset" is both strong and easier to remember than a random string of characters. Write your password down and store it in a locked drawer, a safe, or a password manager program, but never store it in a text file on your computer or in an email message.

What to Do If You Forget Your New Password

If you change your password and then forget it before logging in again, your first option is to use the password reset disk or recovery key you created beforehand. On Windows, restart your computer, click "I forgot my password" at the login screen, and insert your reset disk when prompted. On Mac, restart and hold Command + Q at the login screen to access the password reset utility, then enter your recovery key.

If you did not create a reset disk or recovery key, you will need to contact Microsoft or Apple support with proof of ownership (your receipt, serial number, or account information). This process can take several days and may require you to visit an Apple Store or send your computer to a repair center. This is why creating a reset disk or recovery key before you change your password is so important.

Change Your Password Regularly to Keep Your Account find

Security experts recommend changing your computer password at least once a year, and more often if you think someone may have seen it or if you use your computer in a public place like a library or coffee shop. If you notice unusual activity on your computer—programs running without your permission, files you did not create, or login attempts from unfamiliar locations—change your password when ready and consider running a malware scan.

If your computer is part of a workplace network, your IT department may require you to change your password on a set schedule, often every 90 days. Check with your IT support team to learn your organization's password policy before making a change, because some networks have additional requirements or restrictions on what passwords you can use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to restart my computer after changing my password?

No, you do not need to restart. Your new password takes effect when ready. However, if you are logged into cloud services or have programs running that use your password, you may need to log out and log back in for those services to recognize the change.

What if my computer asks for a PIN instead of a password?

Windows allows you to use a PIN (usually four digits) instead of a password for faster login. If you want to change your PIN, go to Settings, click "Accounts," then "Sign-in options," and look for the PIN section. The process is similar to changing a password, but you will enter a four-digit code instead.

Can I change my password if I am not the administrator of my computer?

Yes, you can change your own user account password from your own account settings. However, if you want to change the administrator password or another user's password, you will need administrator access. Ask the administrator of your computer to help you if you do not have this access.

Will changing my password delete my files or programs?

No, changing your password will not affect your files, programs, or any data on your computer. It only changes the code you use to log in. All your documents, photos, and installed software will remain exactly as they were.

What should I do if I see a password change screen I did not expect?

If a pop-up or screen appears asking you to change your password outside of your normal settings, do not enter any information. This may be a fake login screen designed to steal your password. Close the window and report it to your IT support team or antivirus software when ready.