How to: Bypass / Reset a Windows XP Password

Windows XP Home Edition

By default, Windows XP Home Edition has a blank Adminsistrator password. To access the Administrator account, boot your PC into Safe Mode. From Safe Mode, you can login as the Administrator and reset the password for any account on the machine. If the Administrator password is not blank, you'll need to use one of the Recovery Tools below.

Windows XP Professional

If you're trying to bypass or reset the password of a local account on a Windows XP Professional machine, you'll either need to perform a clean install of the operating system or use one of the tools below. I can personally recommend ERD Commander. My employer purchased a copy for my use. It's very easy to use and I've had no problem with it. The cheapest version of ERD Commander is currently $150, so you'll need a good reason to purchase it. I have not personally used the other two tools listed below.

Windows XP Password Recovery Tools

Note: The prices listed below refer to single or one-time licenses. Refer to the individual sites for detailed pricing. Read the license agreements carefully before purchasing!

NTAccess - $90
Windows XP/2000/NT Key - $195
ERD Commander - $150

Additional Resources

Lost Forgotten Expired Password
Daniel Petri: Gain Access to NT/2000/XP/2003 Computer