NT Password Reset: How to Reset a Forgotten Windows Password Easily (2025 Guide)

If you’ve ever been locked out of your computer and wondered how to perform an NT password reset safely and for free — this guide is for you.
The Offline NT Password & Registry Editor is one of the most reliable tools to reset Windows passwords without needing expensive software or professional help.

This simple, step-by-step guide explains how to reset or remove a Windows password using this tool. Whether you forgot your login credentials or bought a second-hand PC without knowing the password, this method helps you regain full access to your computer in minutes.



What Is Offline NT Password & Registry Editor?

The Offline NT Password & Registry Editor is a free and open-source tool that lets users reset forgotten Windows passwords or remove them entirely.
It works by accessing the Windows registry files stored on your hard drive — allowing you to reset passwords without logging in.

It supports multiple versions of Windows, including Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, and works perfectly from a bootable USB or CD.


Read also: 5 Best Solutions to Fix Your Computer Slow Speed

Step-by-Step: How to Reset Windows Password Using Offline NT Password Editor

Follow these simple steps to reset your Windows password using the NT password reset tool.


1. Download Offline NT Password & Registry Editor

  • Go to the official website: http://pogostick.net/~pnh/ntpasswd/
  • Under the “Download” section, find the latest version of the tool.
  • Choose either CD ISO or USB version depending on how you want to boot your PC.
  • Save the ISO file to your computer.

2. Create a Bootable USB or CD

To use the tool, you’ll need to create bootable media: You can follow the steps given in the below blog post.

Create a Bootable USB Drive with Rufus in 10 Easy Steps
Create a Bootable USB Drive with Rufus in 10 Easy Steps
  • For USB: use software like Rufus.
  • For CD/DVD: use tools like ImgBurn.
    This allows your system to start directly from the NT Password Reset utility.

3. Boot from the USB or CD

  1. Insert the bootable media into your locked computer.
  2. Restart your system.
  3. Press the BIOS/boot menu key (usually F2, F10, F12, or Del).
  4. Select the USB or CD/DVD drive as your boot device.

The Offline NT Password Editor will now load and display a simple command-line interface.


4. Select the Windows Installation

Once the tool loads, it will scan for all available Windows installations.
Type the number next to the version you want to unlock — for example, 1 for Windows 10 — then press Enter.


Still need support? Follow the blow post on How to Install Windows 11 on Windows 10 Free: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Install Windows 11 on Windows 10 Free
How to Install Windows 11 on Windows 10 Free: A Step-by-Step Guide

5. Choose the Password Reset Option

The tool will now ask what you want to do.
Press Enter to choose the default option — reset the password.


6. Pick the User Account

You’ll see a list of all user accounts on that computer.
Type the number for the account you want to unlock (e.g., Administrator or User) and press Enter.


7. Reset the Password

When prompted, type 1 to confirm the password reset.
You can either set a new password or leave it blank to log in without one.


9. Save and Exit

After resetting, type y and press Enter to save the changes to the Windows registry.
Finally, remove the USB or CD and restart your computer.

You should now be able to log in without a password or with your newly created one.


Important Notes

  • Always use Offline NT Password Editor responsibly and only on computers you have permission to access.
  • Back up your data if possible before using any password recovery tool.
  • This tool does not recover the old password — it simply resets or removes it.

Why Use NT Password Reset Tool?

The NT password reset method is:

  • Free — no paid software required.
  • Fast — takes less than 10 minutes.
  • Safe — works offline, no internet needed.
  • Simple — no complex coding or technical steps.

It’s perfect for home users, IT professionals, and anyone who’s lost access to their Windows account.

FAQ on Reset Local Admin Password

What is NT Password Reset?

NT Password Reset refers to the process of removing or resetting a Windows password using tools like the Offline NT Password & Registry Editor without reinstalling Windows.

Is Offline NT Password & Registry Editor safe to use?

Yes. It’s a trusted open-source utility used by professionals for years. Just ensure you download it from the official website to avoid malware.

Can NT Password Reset work on Windows 11?

Yes. The tool supports Windows 7 through Windows 11 for both local and offline accounts.

Will I lose my data after resetting the password?

No. This method only resets the login password. Your files, programs, and settings stay safe.

Do I need internet access for NT Password Reset?

No internet connection is required — it works completely offline from a bootable USB or CD.


Israr Ahmed
Israr Ahmed

Israr Ahmed is the founder of DriveInTech and a technology professional with over 17 years of hands-on experience in IT support, system administration, and digital solutions.

Through his blog and YouTube channel, he shares practical guides, troubleshooting tips, and digital growth strategies to help individuals and small businesses solve tech problems and stay ahead in the digital world.

When not writing or creating tutorials, Israr enjoys exploring new software tools, testing online learning platforms, and sharing insights that make technology simple, useful, and accessible for everyone.

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