How to Reset the Windows XP Local Administrator Password

This came in handy recently helping a client. Sure, I could have used a Linux CD, but nothing wrong with using existing Windows tricks.

  • Insert your Windows XP Setup CD and boot your computer.
  • Proceed past the welcome screen and the EULA.
  • You will have the option to install XP again, or “Repair your existing Windows XP installation“.  Press  “R” to choose repair.
  • At this point, the repair process will copy any necessary files - not sure why this is needed for a password reset.
  • The system will restart. Please ensure you DO NOT press a key when “Press any key to continue…” appears.
  • Watch carefully for the message “Installing Devices”, at which point hit the SHIFT key AND F10 key.
  • A command prompt will open (if you do not know what a command prompt is, this may be too advanced for you). Type nusrmgr.cpl followed by the ENTER key.
  • The “User Accounts” window opens which will now allow you to reset the local Administrator account.

That’s all folks!

Tags: Passwords, Security, XP by simon
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Speed Up Your Internet Connection in XP

This nifty tip is for XP Professional users and can help speed up your Internet speeds by  10% to 25%.  By default, XP Professional limits 20% of available bandwidth for packets or data deemed as higher priority. This is not necessarily a bad thing, [Read more →]

Tags: Internet, Video Tutorial, XP by simon
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