Reset Domain Admin Password - Server 2008 R2
Password Reset for Domain Administrators in Windows Server 2008 R2
Misplacing or forgetting your password can be frustrating, but a straightforward method exists to reset the Domain Administrator password. This process requires access to the original Windows Server 2008 R2 installation media and the utilization of a specific command-line procedure.
Utilizing the Windows Server 2008 R2 Installation Disk
A copy of the Windows Server 2008 R2 installation disk is essential for initiating the password reset. This disk provides the necessary tools to access the system at a level where administrative credentials can be modified.
The Command Line Procedure
The password reset is accomplished through a command-line operation. This technique allows for a bypass of the standard login prompts when the administrator account password has been lost.
Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:
- Boot from the Windows Server 2008 R2 installation disk.
- On the "Install Windows" screen, select "Next."
- Choose "Repair your computer" instead of installing.
- Navigate to "Troubleshoot" then "Command Prompt."
- Type the following command and press Enter:
net user administrator * - You will be prompted to enter a new password. Type the new password, press Enter, and confirm it.
Following these steps will successfully reset the Domain Administrator password, granting you access to the system once more. It’s crucial to remember this new password for future access.
This method provides a convenient solution for regaining access when the administrative password is forgotten, leveraging the resources available on the original installation media.
Replacing Utilman.exe for Password Reset
Begin by booting your system from the Windows installation media and selecting the “Repair your computer” option, located in the lower left corner of the screen.
Proceed through the recovery options until you are presented with the choice to open the Command Prompt. This is the tool you will utilize for the following steps.
Initially, create a backup of the existing Utilman.exe file using this command:
MOVE C:\Windows\System32\Utilman.exe C:\Windows\System32\Utilman.exe.bak
This ensures you can restore the original file if needed.
Next, you must copy the cmd.exe file and rename it to Utilman.exe. Execute the following command:
COPY C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe C:\Windows\System32\Utilman.exe
After this, restart your computer. Upon reaching the logon screen, click the Ease of Access icon.
This action should unexpectedly launch a command prompt window.
To initiate the password change process, type the following command:
net user administrator *
Pressing Enter will prompt you to enter a new password and then confirm it. Note that the characters you type will not be visible, but they are being recorded.
Following a successful login with the new credentials, remember to restore the original Utilman.exe file. First, delete the current Utilman.exe, then rename Utilman.exe.bak back to Utilman.exe.