Every so often, we just blank on our passwords. With so many accounts online, it’s a wonder we can recall any. We will start with how to reset the log-in for your computer and devices, then links to articles on resetting passwords for specific sites.
Resetting Your Computer Password
Depending on your computer type, logging in may take a few different steps.
- Mac desktop:
- Power on your computer.
- Enter your password in the space provided or Touch ID, if enabled.
- If the password fails, check if your keyboard has Caps Lock turned on (the password field shows a Caps Lock symbol ).
- Restart your Mac by holding down the power button for 10 seconds or longer
- Connect to the internet by clicking on the wifi button and then selecting your network.
- If your account was set up with a password hint to help you remember the password, a question mark appears next to the password field in the login window. Click it to see the password hint.
- You may try logging in three times before your computer locks. If you don’t already see a password-reset option, enter your password up to three times until you see one of the following messages:
- To learn more about these options, click through to the Apple website instructions found here.
- Windows desktop:
- Power on your computer.
- Reset your Microsoft account password online
- Go to the Microsoft account sign-in page and click the “Sign in” button.
- Click on the link “Can’t access your account?” Select your account type. Next, you need to verify your identity to proceed.
- Enter your Microsoft account email or phone number and click “Next.” Choose your verification method. Microsoft will send a security code to your email or phone number associated with the account.
- Once you receive the security code, enter it in the provided field and click “Next.” If you don’t have access to your email or phone, click “I don’t have any of these” and follow the instructions for an alternative verification method.
- Once your identity is verified, you’ll be prompted to create a new password.
Resetting Your Browser Password
Depending on your browser, there are a few steps to changing your password:
- Chrome:
- Click your profile picture in the upper right of the screen, then click “Manage your accounts.”
- Click “Personal Info” on the menu that appears to the left.
- Scroll down to “Passwords” and follow instructions.
- Firefox:
- Click on your avatar in the upper right of the screen, often just your first initial.
- Your account page will open. Click “Profile” in the Settings column on the left side of your screen.
- You can reset your password here.
- Microsoft Edge:
- At the top of your screen on the right, you will see three dots in the navigation bar. Click here to launch a drop-down menu.
- Select “Settings” on the drop-down menu.
- On the next screen, click “Profiles – passwords.” This will display your Edge password and passwords for the other websites you log into.
- Click on “Edit.”
- You will be prompted to enter your Microsoft Edge PIN.
- If you don’t know your PIN, click “I forgot my PIN” and follow the directions for other ways to validate your identity.
With any device, some settings will vary depending on the type and level of operating system running. To prevent password issues in the future, do an online search for Password Managers. These apps allow you to store your passwords securely while accessing them with a single password.
Explore our website to learn more about BC CRN or connect with your local CRN for more information or resources.
