It's a simple process to reset a forgotten password on a Windows 7 computer. Aside from a password reset disk (discussed in Step 14 below), Windows hasn't provided a way to reset a Windows 7 password, but there's a clever trick that anyone can try with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 7.

If you prefer screenshots, try our Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Your Windows 7 Password for a simple walkthrough. Otherwise, follow these steps in order:

Insert your Windows 7 installation DVD or a Windows 7 system repair disc into your optical drive and restart your computer. If you have either of these on a flash drive, that will work too.

After your computer boots from the disc or flash drive, select Next on the screen with your language and keyboard settings.