Resetting passwords in Active Directory (AD) is a common administrative task. It helps users regain access to their accounts while maintaining security. Administrators must ensure password resets follow security policies and compliance requirements.

Methods to Reset Password in AD

There are multiple ways to reset a user’s password in Active Directory.

1. Using Active Directory Users and Computers (ADUC)

  • Open Active Directory Users and Computers (ADUC).
  • Locate the user account under the correct Organizational Unit (OU).
  • Right-click the user and select Reset Password.
  • Enter the new password and enforce password policies.

2. Using PowerShell

Administrators can reset passwords via PowerShell, allowing for bulk password resets or automation.

# Reset a user's password in AD
Set-ADAccountPassword -Identity "username" -NewPassword (ConvertTo-SecureString "NewP@ssw0rd!" -AsPlainText -Force)
  • Use Set-ADAccountPassword to change the password.
  • The ConvertTo-SecureString command ensures password security.

3. Using Command Prompt (net user)

net user username NewP@ssw0rd! /domain
  • Requires administrative privileges.
  • Works on domain-joined computers.

Forcing a User to Change Password at Next Login

For security, administrators can force users to change passwords upon login.

Using ADUC

  • Check the “User must change password at next logon” option when resetting the password.

Using PowerShell

Set-ADUser -Identity "username" -ChangePasswordAtLogon $true
  • Ensures the user sets a secure password after logging in.

Unlocking a Locked-Out Account

If an account is locked due to failed login attempts, it must be unlocked before resetting the password.

Using PowerShell

Unlock-ADAccount -Identity "username"
  • Removes the lockout flag without changing the password.

Password Policies in AD

Administrators should enforce strong password policies to prevent unauthorized access.

SettingDescription
Minimum LengthEnforces a minimum number of characters (e.g., 12).
Complexity RequirementRequires uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.
ExpirationForces users to change passwords periodically.
Lockout ThresholdLocks accounts after repeated failed login attempts.
# View domain password policies
Get-ADDefaultDomainPasswordPolicy