Forgot Your Microsoft Account Password? Here’s How to Recover it
With the end of support for Windows 10 approaching, many of you will likely consider taking advantage of Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU), which will enable you to use Windows 10 safely until October 2026. To take advantage of Microsoft ESU, you’ll need your Microsoft password. If you’ve forgotten yours, we will show you how to recover it..
Here is our step-by-step guide on how to recover a forgotten Microsoft password:
Step 1: Go to the Microsoft Account Recovery Page
Open a web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft password reset page: https://account.live.com/password/reset
Step 2: Enter Your Microsoft Account Information
Enter the email address, phone number, or Skype name associated with your Microsoft account.
Click Next.
Step 3: Choose a Verification Method
Microsoft will present you with options to verify your identity. These are typically the security information you previously added to your account. Common options include:
Email a code to an alternate email address: A code will be sent to a backup email you’ve provided.
Text a code to your phone number: A code will be sent via SMS to your registered phone number.
I don’t have any of these: If you can’t access any of the above, you’ll need to use the account recovery form (see Step 6).
Step 4: Enter the Verification Code
Check your email or phone for the verification code.
Enter the code in the provided field on the Microsoft website.
Click Next.
Step 5: Reset Your Password
Once your identity is verified, you will be prompted to create a new password.
Choose a strong, unique password that you haven’t used before. A good password should include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Confirm the new password.
Click Next to finalize the change.
Step 6 (only when necessary): What if You Don’t Have Access to Your Security Info?
If you don’t have access to your alternate email or phone number, you’ll need to use the account recovery form.
On the password reset page, after entering your email address, select “I don’t have any of these.”
Fill out the recovery form:
You’ll be asked to provide as much information as possible to prove you own the account. This may include:
Your full name and birth date.
The subject lines of recent emails you’ve sent.
Names of contacts in your address book.
Any past passwords you remember using?
Credit card information if you have purchased anything from Microsoft (e.g., MS 365, OneDrive, Xbox Live).
Submit the form. Microsoft will review the information.
Wait for a response. It can take a few business days for Microsoft to review your submission. They will contact you at the alternate email address you provided in the form.
Important: The more accurate and detailed information you can provide, the higher the chance of a successful recovery.
Tips to Avoid Losing Access in the Future
Update your security information regularly: Make sure your recovery phone number and email address are current.
Use a password manager: This can help you create and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second form of verification (like a code from your phone) in addition to your password.
Use a Passkey.
This tip was written in response to Nora and others who had questions about Microsoft’s EAU program and its Microsoft Account requirement. Thanks for your questions and comments!