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How to change password of Windows RDP

Windows RDP

Windows RDP password changing can be accomplished in several ways, depending on whether you’re logged into the system through RDP or managing it remotely.

Windows Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft that allows users to connect to and control another computer remotely over a network connection.

Below are step-by-step instructions for the most common methods:

1. Change Windows RDP Password While Logged In

If you are logged into the system via RDP, you can change the password using the Windows interface:

Steps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + End:
    • This opens a menu with options like locking the computer, signing out, and changing the password.
    • Note: Ctrl + Alt + Del will affect your local machine instead of the windows RDP session, so Ctrl + Alt + End is the correct combination within windows RDP.
  2. Select “Change a Password”:
    • Click this option from the menu.
  3. Enter Your Credentials:
    • Type the old password.
    • Enter the new password twice to confirm.
  4. Click “Submit”:
    • If successful, the system will confirm that your password has been changed.
  5. Reconnect:
    • If you lose connection due to the password change, reconnect using the new password.

2. Change RDP Password Using Command Prompt or PowerShell

This method is useful if you prefer command-line tools or the graphical interface is not accessible.

Command Prompt:

  1. Open the Command Prompt.
    • Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
  2. Use the following command to change the password
    • net user <username> <newpassword>
    • Replace <username> with the account name and <newpassword> with the desired password.
  3. Press Enter to execute the command.
  4. A success message will confirm the password change.

PowerShell:

  1. Open PowerShell.
    • Press Win + R, type powershell, and press Enter.
  2. Use the following command: 
$username = "<username>"
$newpassword = ConvertTo-SecureString "<newpassword>" -AsPlainText -Force
Set-LocalUser -Name $username -Password $newpassword

Replace <username> and <newpassword> with the appropriate values.

3. Change the Password Using Computer Management

This method requires administrative privileges on the remote system.

Steps:

  1. Open Computer Management:
    • Press Win + R, type compmgmt.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to “Local Users and Groups”:
    • Expand System Tools > Local Users and Groups > Users.
  3. Right-Click the User Account:
    • Select the user whose password you want to change.
  4. Choose “Set Password”:
    • Follow the prompts to set a new password.
  5. Save and Reconnect:
    • Log in with the new password.

4. Change the Password Remotely Through Administrative Tools

If you have administrative rights and are managing the windows RDP system remotely, you can use one of the following methods:

Remote Desktop Connection Manager or Remote Tools:

  1. Open a tool like Active Directory Users and Computers (if applicable).
  2. Locate the account.
  3. Right-click and select “Reset Password.”
  4. Enter the new password and save changes.

5. Tips and Best Practices for Changing RDP Passwords

  • Use Strong Passwords:
    • Include a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.
    • Avoid using dictionary words or predictable patterns.
  • Update Stored Credentials:
    • If you store RDP credentials using tools like the Remote Desktop app, update them to avoid login errors.
  • Ensure Administrative Access:
    • If you lose access to the system due to password errors, ensure another account has administrative privileges for recovery.
  • Test New Passwords:
    • After changing the password, immediately test the new credentials to confirm they work.
  • Follow Security Policies:
    • Adhere to organizational policies regarding password complexity and rotation schedules.

By following these methods, you can successfully change your windows RDP password and maintain secure access to your Windows system.