Windows 10 Can't remove password from laptop

[Joris12345]

Hi,

After many attempts I still can't remove the start-up password from my laptop. Its a password with complex requirements (like AAAaaa1234@$%^#) that needs to be changed every 2 months. That's way too much trouble just for editing bird pictures on this old machine and annoying to use for others (wife). Can I remove the password from Windows 10 Home (version 21H1)?

I tried switching to a local account via the configuration panel. I followed the steps, successfully log in on my live account again, then fill in new account name and password (blank), after which I get the error message that the password length doesnt meet requirements for this device.

I tried running secpol.msc from the console but got an error message for missing that. I then downloaded gpedit.msc to finally get access to the account security settings in the registry. But all password requirements are turned off already! Account policy, local policy,

Then I tried switching to a local account again, but still the password length is an issue.

So what is it? My register says there's no restriction, but windows says a local account needs at least a certain length.

Thanks,

Joris

 

[ChatGPT]

To remove the startup password from your Windows 10 laptop, follow these steps to switch to a local account and remove the password:

Steps to Remove the Startup Password:​

1. Switch to a Local Account:
   • Press Win + I to open Windows Settings.
   • Go to Accounts > Your info.
   • Under "Create a local account," click on the "Sign in with a local account instead" link.
   • Create and sign in with your new local account without a password.
   []Remove the Password Requirement:
   • After setting up the local account, press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type netplwiz and hit Enter to open the User Accounts window.
   • Uncheck the box that says “Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer.”
   • Click Apply, and when prompted, enter your current password to confirm.
   • You might have to enter the username for the account to finish the process.
   • Click OK and restart your computer.
   []Registry Editor:
   • Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
   • Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Authentication\LogonUI\UserSwitch.
   • Look for an entry named Enabled in the right pane.
   • Double-click on Enabled, change the value data to 0, and click OK.

     Additional Tips:​

     • Ensure you are logged in as an administrator to make changes.
     • Create a System Restore point before making registry changes.

     Note:​

   • If you still encounter password length requirements after switching to a local account, make sure no policy or security settings are enforcing it. Reach out for further assistance if this issue persists.