How to reset a Lenovo laptop password

You go to log in to your Lenovo® laptop and realize you’ve forgotten your password. It happens to the best of us—maybe you recently changed it or haven’t used the device in a while. Whatever the reason, getting locked out can be frustrating. 

Asurion Experts help people with all of their tech care needs—we’ve seen it all and can fix it all. From support to repair and protection, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to reset your Lenovo laptop password and regain access to your device.

Common Lenovo password issues

You may need assistance with Lenovo laptop password recovery for a few reasons.

Forgotten password on Lenovo laptop

These days, there's a password for everything—computers, email accounts, and some websites. With so many passwords to remember, it's unsurprising that you may forget the one for your Lenovo laptop.

Locked out of Lenovo laptop

A Lenovo laptop may enter the lock screen based on your Windows™ timeout settings. Once it enters the lock screen, you must provide the account password to regain access to the device.

No Password Reset Disk available

Windows includes a handy Password Reset Disk tool for users who forget their password. However, if you never set up the Password Reset Disk, you can't use it to enter your device. 

Password reset methods for Lenovo laptops

There are several ways to unlock a Lenovo laptop without a password.

Use a Password Reset Disk

A Password Reset Disk acts as an identifier to your computer. You can insert the disk to regain access and create a new password. If you previously created a Password Reset Disk using a flash drive or SD card, follow these steps to unlock your computer.

1. Turn on the Lenovo laptop and enter the password. Click OK after it fails. 
2. Insert the Password Reset Disk into your laptop. Click Reset Password > Next. 
3. Click the Password Reset Disk > Next.
4. Enter a new password and create a hint.
5. Click Next > Finish.

Reset via Windows account

It's possible to reset your password on a Lenovo device using the email address connected to your account.

1. Use a smartphone or another computer to visit the Microsoft Account Recovery website. 
2. Enter the email or phone number associated with your account. Click Next.
3. Click Forgotten your password? 
4. Select a way for Microsoft to verify your identity—email or text message.
5. If prompted, enter the hidden details of the email address or phone number. You'll receive an authentication code sent to the email address or phone number associated with your account.
6. Enter the authentication code on the Microsoft website. Click Next, then create a new password.

After creating the new password, try logging into your Lenovo laptop with it. 

Lenovo OneKey Recovery

Some Lenovo laptops come equipped with OneKey Recovery. This tool resets your device to its factory settings. The reset process deletes any files and settings saved on your computer, so only try this option if that's not a concern.

1. Locate the Lenovo OneKey Recovery button on the side of your laptop. It's a small button with an icon shaped like an upside-down U. Press the button.
2. When the Novo Button Menu appears, click System Recovery and press Enter.
3. Follow the prompts to reset your device. 

FAQ

Can I reset my Lenovo laptop password without a reset disk?

Yes, if you're using a Microsoft account, you can reset your password online at the Microsoft recovery page. For local accounts, you may need to use Safe Mode or a password reset USB if one was created earlier.

What do I do if I forgot the administrator password on my Lenovo laptop?

If you’re locked out of an admin account, try logging in with another account that has administrator privileges. If that’s not an option, you can boot into Safe Mode or use a Windows recovery tool to reset the password.

Will resetting my password delete files on my Lenovo laptop?

No, resetting your password doesn’t delete any personal files or installed programs. However, factory resetting your laptop to bypass a password will erase all data, so try other methods first.

Can I use Command Prompt to reset a Lenovo laptop password?

Yes, but only if you have administrator access or are in recovery mode with system access. This method is more advanced and typically used by IT professionals.

How can I avoid getting locked out of my Lenovo laptop again?

Consider setting up password recovery options, such as linking a Microsoft account, using a PIN, enabling fingerprint login, or creating a password reset disk for local accounts.