Windows XP Professional Log In Password Change

I have a computer that was given to me by brother who we cannot get in touch with any more. The problem is that he left me a couple of passwords to log in to Windows XP, but the passwords do not work.

What I need to find out is how to log in with out knowing the password.

Thanks

aj
The Gambling Cowboy

 

do google search - search criteria: windows xp password
all three words.

the first entry returned looks promising

SORRY, the above appears to be worthless for your situation

Gary

 

My first reply is way out in left field.
The google search led me to this page http://pubs.logicalexpressions.com/pub0009/LPMArticle.asp?ID=305
it is an extensive description about how to recover from a lost password

 

If you have your XP cd, do this.....
You can easily change or wipe out your Administrator password for free during a Windows XP Repair. Here’s how with a step-by-step description of the initial Repair process included for newbie’s.
1. Place your Windows XP CD in your cd-rom and start your computer (it’s assumed here that your XP CD is bootable – as it should be - and that you have your bios set to boot from CD)
2. Keep your eye on the screen messages for booting to your cd Typically, it will be “Press any key to boot from cd”
3. Once you get in, the first screen will indicate that Setup is inspecting your system and loading files.

4. When you get to the Welcome to Setup screen, press ENTER to Setup Windows now
5. The Licensing Agreement comes next - Press F8 to accept it.
6. The next screen is the Setup screen which gives you the option to do a Repair.

It should read something like “If one of the following Windows XP installations is damaged, Setup can try to repair it”
Use the up and down arrow keys to select your XP installation (if you only have one, it should already be selected) and press R to begin the Repair process.
7. Let the Repair run. Setup will now check your disks and then start copying files which can take several minutes.
8. Shortly after the Copying Files stage, you will be required to reboot. (this will happen automatically – you will see a progress bar stating “Your computer will reboot in 15 seconds”
9. During the reboot, do not make the mistake of “pressing any key” to boot from the CD again! Setup will resume automatically with the standard billboard screens and you will notice Installing Windows is highlighted.
10. Keep your eye on the lower left hand side of the screen and when you see the Installing Devices progress bar, press SHIFT + F10. This is the security hole! A command console will now open up giving you the potential for wide access to your system.
11. At the prompt, type NUSRMGR.CPL and press Enter. Voila! You have just gained graphical access to your User Accounts in the Control Panel.
12. Now simply pick the account you need to change and remove or change your password as you prefer. If you want to log on without having to enter your new password, you can type control userpasswords2 at the prompt and choose to log on without being asked for password. After you’ve made your changes close the windows, exit the command box and continue on with the Repair (have your Product key handy).
13. Once the Repair is done, you will be able to log on with your new password (or without a password if you chose not to use one or if you chose not to be asked for a password). Your programs and personalized settings should remain intact.

 

Jazagod, looks like you did a cut and paste from the URL I indicated.

I believe thats called plagiarizm unless you have the permission of, and give credit to, the original author.

 

Maybie Gary, Just trying to help, Plus it wasn't off that site, there is a many sites that use the same words. Dont go into it here please.

 

I don't have the CD for the computer, would I be able to use any Windows CD or just the one that was originally loaded on the computer?

I don't want to get it started and something pops up telling me that the cd that I am trying to use has a different serial number and won't let me use it.

Is there maybe some files that I can modify or delete, like the nusrmgr.exe file that opens it up, in the MS DOS prompt. For example, force bootup to open in dod prompt, then go to the directory that contains the passwork, and/or the ini files and remove the file. Shouldn't that prompt Windows to request a new password?

aj

 

may sound silly but at loggin have you tried just hitting enter?
If you can access windows, it could be easier to change. though you would stilll need admin access. hmmm.
Also If you have your CD key (Imay be incorect) I believe any cd will do the trick.

 

this is something i learned may not work for you but it worked for me when i was working on a xp pc for someone that had a password.
start the pc in safemode and you should see admin as a login and just login with that. i dont know about changing its users password without knowing it but that will get you into windows. doing that you can make another user and login with it without having to be in safemode

 

A question, even if you gain access, and you try change password, wont windows prompt for the original pass first?

 

yea you would need to know the password first to change passwords but what i said will help him gain access to windows.

 

Yes, I was just checking curiosity..good thing i'm not a cat!