i lost my windows password. Can i recover without format/reinstall? Thanks!

try these first. NOTE: If the hidden admin account (Safe Mode) is password protected you will need that password to use this procedure. Boot to the sign in screen. Press CTRL-ALT-DEL Release Press CTRL-ALT-DEL Release In the box that pops up type Administrator for the User name leave the password blank and click OK or press Enter. Windows will boot the hidden admin account. Open Control Panel---User Accounts. Open the account you are locked out of. Click Remove Password//Change password Close out the open windows and Reboot. Lost password, Change Password or Delete Password on XP User Accounts with Admin or limited Privileges. This procedure only works if you can enter safe mode thru the hidden Admin Account 1-Boot to Safe Mode by tapping the F8 key while booting 2-Choose safe mode, Press Enter 3-Select operating system, Press Enter 4-Click Administrator Account 5-Windows is running in Safe Mode, Click YES 6-At the Safe Mode Desktop, click, Start, Control Panel 7-Double click User Accounts, Here you can delete accounts, delete/change passwords ETC. 8-When done Close all Windows 9-Restart Computer

Does anyone bother searching anymore, or is it just easier (the lazy way) to ask the question for the millionth time? Life's more painless for the brainless.

I agree. I guess it's just easier for them and I'll include myself too. I've not searched and instead posted because in some sort of way seems we'll receive a quick answer. BUT this is not to say that we throw the post with the question out there and not search while our question is being reviewed/answered. don't worry be patient. remember some people panic. OVERRIDE

It's not that I'm lazy, I just don't care...

.... but the forum helpers should care I assume. However did you manage to lose your password anyway? DerekW

just change it Offline NT Password & Registry Editor