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Windows Server 2012 is an operating system specifically designed for servers and is commonly used in businesses and organizations. As the administrator of a Windows Server 2012 system, it is essential to have control over the system and ensure its security. One important aspect of server security is regularly changing the administrator password. This helps to minimize the risk of unauthorized access and protect sensitive data.
In this blog post, we will explore different methods to change the administrator password on Windows Server 2012. Whether you have forgotten the password or simply want to update it for security reasons, these methods will guide you through the process step by step. By following the instructions provided, you can regain access to your server or update the password without any hassle.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change Windows Server 2012 Administrator Password
Changing the administrator password on Windows Server 2012 is crucial for several reasons. Here are a few key reasons why it is important to regularly update the administrator password:
1. Enhanced Security: A strong and unique password ensures that only authorized individuals can access the server. By changing the administrator password regularly, you can minimize the risk of unauthorized access and strengthen the overall security of your system.
2. Compliance Requirements: Many regulatory frameworks and industry standards require regular password changes as part of their security guidelines. By adhering to these requirements, you can ensure that your server remains compliant with necessary regulations.
3. Employee Turnover: If an employee who had access to the server leaves the organization, changing the administrator password is essential to prevent any potential unauthorized access. This helps maintain the integrity of your server and protect sensitive data.
4. Suspected Compromise: If you suspect that the server’s security may have been compromised or if you notice any unusual activities, changing the administrator password can help mitigate any potential risks and prevent further unauthorized access.
5. Best Practice: Changing the administrator password regularly is considered a best practice in server management. It adds an extra layer of security and reduces the likelihood of a successful brute-force attack on the password.
It is important to note that changing the administrator password should be done with caution and proper authorization. Make sure to follow the necessary guidelines and inform other authorized individuals within your organization about the password change process.
Method 1: Changing the Administrator Password via the Control Panel
Changing the administrator password via the Control Panel is a straightforward method that does not require any advanced technical knowledge. Follow the steps below to change the administrator password using this method:
Step 1: Log in to the Windows Server 2012 system using an account that has administrative privileges.
Step 2: Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard and select "Control Panel" from the menu that appears.
Step 3: In the Control Panel, select "User Accounts."
Step 4: Click on "Manage another account."
Step 5: Select the administrator account for which you want to change the password.
Step 6: Click on "Change the password."
Step 7: Enter the current password and then enter the new password in the designated fields.
Step 8: Optionally, you can add a password hint to help you remember the new password. This is recommended if you think you might forget the password in the future.
Step 9: Click on "Change password" to save the new password.
Pros:
1. Easy and straightforward process to change the administrator password.
2. No specialized technical skills required.
3. Can be done directly through the Control Panel interface.
Cons:
1. Requires administrative privileges to change the password.
2. Users with limited access may not have the necessary permissions to perform this action.
Method 2: Changing the Administrator Password via Command Prompt
Changing the administrator password via Command Prompt provides a more advanced method for users familiar with the command line interface. Follow the steps below to change the administrator password using this method:
Step 1: Log in to the Windows Server 2012 system using an account that has administrative privileges.
Step 2: Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" from the menu that appears. This will open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
Step 3: In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
"`
net user administrator new_password
"`
Replace "new_password" with the desired new password for the administrator account.
Step 4: If the password change is successful, you will see a message stating "The command completed successfully."
Pros:
1. Provides a more advanced method for users familiar with the command line interface.
2. Can be executed quickly and efficiently.
3. Allows for password changes without the need for a graphical user interface.
Cons:
1. Requires knowledge of Command Prompt commands and syntax.
2. Mistakes in command syntax can lead to errors or unintended outcomes.
Method 3: Changing the Administrator Password via Computer Management
Changing the administrator password via Computer Management provides an alternative method for users who prefer a graphical user interface but do not want to use the Control Panel. Follow the steps below to change the administrator password using this method:
Step 1: Log in to the Windows Server 2012 system using an account that has administrative privileges.
Step 2: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
Step 3: Type "compmgmt.msc" in the Run dialog box and press Enter. This will open the Computer Management window.
Step 4: In the Computer Management window, expand "Local Users and Groups" and select "Users."
Step 5: Right-click on the administrator account for which you want to change the password and select "Set Password."
Step 6: Follow the instructions in the Set Password wizard to enter and confirm the new password.
Step 7: Click on "Finish" to save the new password.
Pros:
1. Provides a graphical user interface for changing the administrator password.
2. Can be executed without the need to access the Control Panel.
3. Allows for password changes in a centralized management interface.
Cons:
1. Requires administrative privileges to change the password.
2. Users with limited access may not have the necessary permissions to perform this action.
Method 4: Changing the Administrator Password via Local Users and Groups
Changing the administrator password via Local Users and Groups is another method that provides a centralized interface for managing user accounts, including the administrator account. Follow the steps below to change the administrator password using this method:
Step 1: Log in to the Windows Server 2012 system using an account that has administrative privileges.
Step 2: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
Step 3: Type "lusrmgr.msc" in the Run dialog box and press Enter. This will open the Local Users and Groups window.
Step 4: In the Local Users and Groups window, expand "Users" and select the administrator account for which you want to change the password.
Step 5: Right-click on the selected administrator account and choose "Set Password."
Step 6: Follow the instructions in the Set Password wizard to enter and confirm the new password.
Step 7: Click on "Finish" to save the new password.
Pros:
1. Provides a centralized interface for managing user accounts, including the administrator account.
2. Can be executed without the need to access the Control Panel or Command Prompt.
3. Allows for password changes in a dedicated management interface.
Cons:
1. Requires administrative privileges to change the password.
2. Users with limited access may not have the necessary permissions to perform this action.
What to Do If You Can’t Change Windows Server 2012 Administrator Password
In some cases, you may encounter issues or limitations that prevent you from changing the administrator password on Windows Server 2012. Here are a few possible fixes to consider when faced with such situations:
1. Use the Reset Password Option: If you are unable to change the password directly, you can try using the reset password option. This usually involves booting the server from a password reset disk or USB drive and following the instructions provided during the reset process.
2. Contact System Administrator: If you do not have the necessary permissions or access rights to change the administrator password, it is recommended to contact the system administrator or IT department for assistance. They will be able to address any issues or provide the necessary access to complete the password change.
3. Use Third-Party Password Reset Tools: There are several third-party password reset tools available that can help you change the administrator password on Windows Server 2012. These tools are often designed to bypass the existing password and allow for resetting or changing the password without the need for the current password.
Bonus Tips
Here are three bonus tips to help you effectively change the administrator password on Windows Server 2012:
1. Use Strong and Unique Passwords: When changing the administrator password, ensure that the new password is strong and unique. Avoid using common words or easily guessable combinations. Instead, use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters to create a strong and secure password.
2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication: Consider implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for the administrator account. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification methods, such as a physical token or a mobile app, along with the password. This helps prevent unauthorized access even if the password is compromised.
3. Regularly Update and Rotate Passwords: Changing the administrator password is not a one-time task. It is recommended to establish a password rotation policy and regularly update the password at designated intervals. This helps ensure the ongoing security of your server and minimize the risk of unauthorized access.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I change the administrator password if I forgot the current password?
A: If you forgot the current administrator password, you may need to use password reset options, such as a password reset disk or a third-party password reset tool. Alternatively, you can reach out to the system administrator or IT department for assistance.
Q2: Will changing the administrator password affect other user accounts on the server?
A: Changing the administrator password will not directly affect other user accounts on the server. However, it is important to ensure that all users are aware of the password change and update their credentials accordingly to maintain access to the server.
Q3: How often should I change the administrator password?
A: The frequency of password changes depends on various factors, including your organization’s security policies and compliance requirements. It is generally recommended to change the administrator password at regular intervals, such as every 60 to 90 days.
Q4: Is it possible to revert to the previous administrator password after changing it?
A: Once the administrator password is changed, it is not possible to directly revert to the previous password. It is always recommended to choose a new password when changing the administrator password and avoid reusing previous passwords.
Q5: Can I change the administrator password remotely?
A: Yes, it is possible to change the administrator password remotely using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) or other remote management tools. However, remote password changes require appropriate access rights and permissions to modify user accounts on the remote server.
Final Thoughts
Changing the administrator password on Windows Server 2012 is an essential step in maintaining the security of your server. By regularly updating the password and following best practices, you can minimize the risk of unauthorized access and protect sensitive data.
In this blog post, we explored four different methods to change the administrator password on Windows Server 2012: via the Control Panel, Command Prompt, Computer Management, and Local Users and Groups. Each method provides a unique approach to password changes, catering to users with different preferences and technical skills.
Remember to choose strong and unique passwords, implement multi-factor authentication, and regularly rotate passwords to enhance the security of your server. If you encounter any issues or limitations, consider the suggested fixes or reach out to the appropriate support channels for assistance.
By following the guidelines and recommendations provided in this blog post, you can confidently change the administrator password on Windows Server 2012 and maintain the integrity of your server’s security.