How to Change Your User Account Password in Windows 11

Maintaining strong digital security requires routinely updating your passwords, especially for the primary gateway to your personal files and data: your Windows 11 user account. Whether you suspect someone might have seen you typing your password, or you are simply practicing good cybersecurity hygiene, Windows 11 provides a straightforward method to update your login credentials directly through the Settings app.

How to Change a Local Account Password

If you set up your Windows 11 PC using an “offline” or local account (meaning it is not tied to a Microsoft email address), you can change your password entirely locally.

1. Click the Start button and select the Settings gear icon (or press Windows Key + I).
2. In the left-hand navigation menu, click on Accounts.
3. Scroll down the main pane and click on Sign-in options.
4. Under the “Ways to sign in” section, locate and click on Password to expand the menu.
5. Click the Change button.
6. Windows will first ask you to prove your identity by typing your Current password. Enter it and click Next.
7. You will now be prompted to enter your New password, type it again to confirm, and optionally provide a “Password hint.”
8. Click Next, and then click Finish.

Your local password is now updated and will be required the next time you wake the computer from sleep or restart.

How to Change a Microsoft Account Password

If you log into Windows 11 using a Microsoft account (e.g., an @outlook.com or @hotmail.com email address), changing your Windows password means you are actually changing your master Microsoft account password. This will affect your login for Outlook, Xbox, OneDrive, and Office 365.

1. Follow the same steps above: Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > Password.
2. Click Change.
3. Because your account is cloud-based, Windows will open a new, secure pop-up window connecting to Microsoft’s servers.
4. You will be asked to verify your identity. This usually involves Microsoft sending a security code to your backup email address or via an SMS text message to your phone.
5. Enter the verification code you receive.
6. You can now type your Current password, followed by your New password.
7. Click Save.

What About PINs?

Many Windows 11 users actually log in using a 4-to-6 digit PIN rather than a full password. A PIN is tied strictly to that specific physical device. If you want to change your PIN, go to the same Sign-in options menu, click on PIN (Windows Hello), and click Change PIN.