Forgot Windows 7 password – how to access files without reinstalling?

Here's a clear explanation of how you can use Safe Mode with Command Prompt to enable the built-in Administrator account, which can help you if you've "forgot Windows 7 password" and want to regain access to your files without reinstalling the system:

1. Restart your computer and press the F8 key repeatedly during startup. This action will bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu.

2. Select "Safe Mode with Command Prompt" from the list of options and press Enter.

3. Your system will boot into Safe Mode and display a Command Prompt window. If prompted to log in, try selecting the Administrator account. If it’s not password-protected, you might be able to log in directly.

4. Once at the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter:

net user administrator /active:yes

This command activates the built-in Administrator account.

5. Restart your computer normally. When it boots up, you should see the Administrator account available on the login screen.

6. Log in as Administrator. Since it often has no password, you may be able to access your system this way.

7. Navigate to "Control Panel > User Accounts" to change the password of your original user account, or directly reset it here.

Using this method is a common way to regain access when you've "forgot Windows 7 password," especially if other options are unavailable. Just remember to disable the Administrator account afterward for security reasons, using:

net user administrator /active:no

This process allows you to recover your files safely without reinstalling Windows.