How to Reset Windows Server 2008 Domain Admin Password

This password reset applies to Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows Server 2008 Enterprise Edition. To Reset Windows Server 2008 domain admin password Ill be using the Server installation disc.

Video Tutorial:

Reset Windows Server 2008 Domain Admin Password

1. Insert the installation disc in your locked Server 2008 and boot from it. When prompted with the Language,Time and Keyboard click on Next.

2. Click “Repair your computer“on the bottom left of the screen. DO NOT CLICK ON INSTALL NOW!!

3. Select the Operating System if is not already selected, and click Next.

4. Click on “Command Prompt” link.

5. Enter the following command to backup the utilman.exe file:

Move C:\Windows\System32\Utilman.exe C:\Windows\System32\Utilman0.exe.

6. Now copy cmd.exe and rename it to Utilman.exe:

Copy C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe C:\Windows\System32\Utilman.exe

7. Now restart the server.

8. When it reboots, at the Logon screen click on the Ease of access icon.

9. To change the Admin password enter the following command::

net user administrator *

10. You’ll be prompted to enter and confirm your new Password. While typing your new password you wont be able to see the characters being entered.

11. Done. You’ve just changed the Administrator password.

To change utilman0.exe. Back to it’s original state. Go thought the same process and enter the following command:

Move C:\Windows\System32\Ultiman0.exe C:\Windows\System32\Ultiman.exe

you’ll be asked to overwrite enter the letter “Y” and press Enter.