On a stand-alone Windows 2000 or XP computer, how do I change my password?

Note: These instructions apply only to a stand-alone Windows 2000 or XP computer, and not to a computer joined to a network domain (such as ADS at Indiana University).

If you are logged into your Windows 2000 or XP computer as an administrator, you can change passwords for all users on your computer. If you are not logged in as an administrator, you can still change the password for your account.

To change any user's password

Note: You can do this only if you are an administrator.

1. From the Start menu, select Control Panel, or select Settings and then Control Panel. In Windows XP, double-click User Accounts. In Windows 2000, double-click Users and Passwords.
   
   
2. Select the user whose password you would like to change, and then click Reset Password... (Windows XP) or Set Password... (Windows 2000).
   
   
3. In both the "New Password" and "Confirm" fields, enter a new password. Click OK twice.

To change your own password

Note: All users, including an administrator, can do this to change their own passwords.

1. Once you are logged in, press Ctrl-Alt-Del to open the Windows Security window.
   
   
2. Click Change Password.
   
   
3. Enter your old password, then your new one, and then your new one again to confirm it.
   
   
4. Click OK, and then click Cancel to return to Windows.

Note: At Indiana University, the University Information Security Office (UISO) recommends that you normally refrain from running your Windows computer as an administrator. For more, see What is the principle of least privilege?

Also see:

• Passwords and passphrases
• At IU, in Windows 2000, XP, or Vista, how do I give myself or other users login privileges on my computer?
• Best practices for computer security
• After uninstalling the Get Connected application, why does my computer still prompt me to change my password, and how can I make it stop?