Reset Lost Windows Password with UBCD4Win Live CD

In this tutorial we'll show you how to reset lost Windows password with the freeware UBCD4Win - Ultimate Boot CD for Windows.

Note: UBCD4Win is a freeware so don't expect it to work with domain controllers. If you want to find a more powerful yet easy-to-use password recovery software, try the PCUnlocker Live CD.

Part 1: Create A UBCD4Win Live CD

1. Download the freeware UBCD4Win from its official website. The download is pretty big (about 269Mb), so expect to wait a while if your network connection is slow.
2. After installing, start the UBCD4Win (UBCD4WinBuilder.exe) program. Point the "Source" path to your Windows XP setup CD or Windows 2003 installation CD. However, Vista is not yet supported as a source.
   
3. Insert a blank CD, select "Burn to CD/DVD" and click Build. The whole process will take a little while.

Part 2: Reset Lost Windows Admin Password

1. Once the CD has been created, go to the BIOS and make sure your CD-ROM is set as the first boot device. Start up the computer with UBCD4Win in the CD-ROM and you will have some boot options. Choose the "Launch The Ultimate Boot CD for Windows" option.
   
2. It will take a few minutes to load fully, but when it does you should see a Windows XP like interface. Once there, go to Start > Programs > Password Tools > NTPWEdit.
   
3. Once the utility is open, you need to click the (Re)open button to open up the SAM file which should show you the list of local system accounts for your Windows installation. Select the Administrator account and click on Change Password.
   
4. Type your new password twice, or leave the password fields blank if you want to clear the password. Click OK.
   
5. Restart the computer, remove the UBCD4Win Live CD from the drive, and you should be able to log into Windows administrator account with the new password you've set.