Windows XP offers a function that is hidden deep inside the user account menu. It is possible to create a so called password reset disk that can be used to reset the password of the account is has been created for. You simply pop in the disk if you have forgotten your password and use it to create a new one.
There is normally no way to store the components of the password reset disk on an usb device because Windows XP is unable to access it during logon. It is not a problem to store the files on an USB device but you will face troubles when trying to access it if you lost your password.
There is however a neat little trick that can be used to be able to access an USB device during logon. To be able to do this you need to activate the guest account as well. If you lost your password you simply login the guest account first which recognizes the USB device and logoff again.
The USB device is still recognized by the system and can be used to reset the password of the main account. Now, let me tell you how you can create a password reset disk in Windows XP.
Congratulations you created a password reset disk on an usb device.
Now, to reset the password do the following:
If you still have a floppy drive you could store the password reset disk on that device as well eliminating the guest account steps.
Update: We have published an updated guide that explains how to create password reset disks in newer versions of Windows.
Advertising revenue is falling fast across the Internet, and independently-run sites like Ghacks are hit hardest by it. The advertising model in its current form is coming to an end, and we have to find other ways to continue operating this site.
We are committed to keeping our content free and independent, which means no paywalls, no sponsored posts, no annoying ad formats (video ads) or subscription fees.
If you like our content, and would like to help, please consider making a contribution:
There are no comments on this post yet, be the first one to share your thoughts!
Ghacks is a technology news blog that was founded in 2005 by Martin Brinkmann. It has since then become one of the most popular tech news sites on the Internet with five authors and regular contributions from freelance writers.
Leave a Reply