Password problems

[smontalbo]

I have a computer and a 3yr.old We both have user
accounts. On mine, I'm the computer administrator, and on
his, he has a limited account. I set up a password for my
account, but forgot what the password is. My hint does
not help refresh my memory, and I don't want to lose all
my files. I can't even get to my mail w/ Roadrunner, my
internet provider! Please help! Any information you need,
I can give you.
Stephanie Montalbo

 

[Taurarian]

Hi Stephanie,

Here's some info:

Windows Home XP
1. As windows is loading up press F8 repeatedly until the Windows advanced
screen comes up.
2. Select safe mode (the version of windows you want to use click XP wait
until it loads the welcome screen.
3. Select Administrator and it will log you on as administrator without a
password (provided a password was not created in this hidden account during
setup).
4. Go to Start - Control Panel - User Accounts.
5. Select your name and click change the password.
Then you should be able to change the password, shut down the computer and
restart in normal mode and use the new password you just created.

****

If you have XP Pro on your computer:-
1. At the log in screen type " ctrl-alt-delete " twice.
2. In the User Account, type Administrator
3. Leave the password blank and press enter.
(Most likely a password wasn't created in this hidden account during setup).

If you decide to set a password it is recommended that you create a
Password Reset Disk by clicking on "Prevent a Forgotten Password" link in
the left pane. The Wizard will guide you through.

http://www2.cajun.net/~theriots/xpsitefolder/win_xp_passwords.htm
Administrator and User Passwords in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;321305
How to Log On to Windows XP If You Forget Your Password or Your Password
Expires

 

[John]

Stephaie,

Sorry to hear, but your system is toast!! Have to format
drive and re-do your OS. This is a PASSWORD issue!! Or you
will have to get a cracker. Good Luck!!

John

 

[Darren Greenwald]

In

You may find you have to re-install your OS.

NEVER use the Administrator log-in for your daily use. It is designed for
exactly this scenario - a forgotten password! Set up a User for yourself and
assign it Administrator rights if you want, but leave the Administrator
log-in for emergencies and system maintenance. AND WRITE DOWN THE PASSWORD!

HTH

Haven't used this product myself, and there are others, but here is one that
will allow you to boot from a floppy and reset the password.

http://www.sunbelt-software.com/product.cfm?id=265

 

[Paul]

DO NOT format the system right away. Search Google for
some password crackers and try them first. If you used a
simple to guess password it should only take a couple of
hours to get it. If however you used a strong password it
might take days or even weeks.