How do I get back into my computer with a locked account

Follow these steps based on how the account is set up.

1. At the Windows sign-in screen, confirm what type of account is being used:
   • If it shows an email address (like outlook.com, hotmail.com, etc.), it is a Microsoft account.
   • If it only shows a name with no email, it is likely a local account.
2. If it is a Microsoft account and the password is forgotten:
   • On another device (phone or another PC), go to https://account.microsoft.com and try to sign in with the email shown on the lock screen.
   • Use the I forgot my password option and follow the steps to reset it using a phone number or alternate email.
   • If the account is locked, follow the guidance in Microsoft account has been locked to unlock it and get a security code, then create a new password.
3. If it is a local account and there is another administrator account on the laptop:
   • Sign in with the administrator account.
   • Open Computer Management.
   • Expand Local Users and Groups > Users.
   • Right-click the locked user account and select Set Password....
   • Enter and confirm a new password, then sign out and sign back in with that account using the new password.
4. If it is a local account and there is no other administrator account available:
   • The documented option is to reset the Windows device. This will reinstall Windows; depending on the reset option chosen, apps and some settings may be removed. Follow the guidance in Reset your PC from the sign-in or recovery options.
5. If sign-in issues persist (PIN or Windows Hello not working):
   • On the sign-in screen, use I forgot my password or I forgot my PIN if available.
   • For local accounts, follow Reset your Windows local account password from another device as referenced in the sign-in help.

If the Microsoft account itself is locked (for example, no Next button or a message that the account is locked), use the aka.ms link shown on the sign-in page to submit the unlock form and follow the instructions provided.

References:

• Change or reset your password in Windows
• User Account Access in Windows
• Microsoft account has been locked