Workshop: Create a Windows password reset disk

Forgetting a Windows password could spell disaster. Avoid upset with the Forgotten Password Wizard

Windows offers a simple way to keep data private by providing password protection, but if that password is forgotten then you could wave goodbye to your personal information.

Fortunately, Windows XP has a little-known feature called the Forgotten Password Wizard, which creates a disk (floppy or USB) for use in the event that the original password is forgotten.

There are two important things to note, though. First, the password reset disk must be created while you still remember the original password and then should be kept somewhere safe in case it’s needed in the future. Second, anyone who gets hold of the disk can reset the PC’s password and gain access to the machine.

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