user accounts

[ng_reader]

for whatever reason i have created a computer running win7 64 bit with a
singular administrative account whose password is now unknown.

what are my options? Can we start from easiest?

 

[Paul]

for whatever reason i have created a computer running win7 64 bit with a
singular administrative account whose password is now unknown.

what are my options? Can we start from easiest?

http://pogostick.net/~pnh/ntpasswd/

(was formerly located here http://home.eunet.no/pnordahl/ntpasswd/ )

Gets a passing reference here.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Registry

"It is also possible to edit the registry under Linux using
the open source Offline NT Password & Registry Editor to
edit the files."

Basically, it's a password resetting tool, not a tool to uncover
the password. By nulling out the password, it should give you
an opportunity to enter a new password (once you're back in
Windows).

Any time you use stuff like that, a full backup isn't a bad idea.
If it's the first time you're using a tool like that, and you're
unfamiliar with it, a backup is handy for when you make mistakes.
Using a backup is frequently easier, than repairing damage later.

HTH,
Paul

 

[Gene E. Bloch]

Basically, it's a password resetting tool, not a tool to uncover
the password. By nulling out the password, it should give you
an opportunity to enter a new password (once you're back in
Windows).

and it will give the OP a chance to write the password down

Or use KeePass or similar, which is portable. Keep a backup of the
passwords and of the program on a memory card...