This article helps in resolving password issues in Windows 8/ 8.1 (Local/ MS or Live account)
If you forget your Windows password, you can use a password reset disk to create a new one. We recommend that you create a password reset disk when you create your password, so you don't lose access to your files and information.
Use a CD, DVD or USB memory key to create a password reset disk using the following steps:
If a reset disk is there, follow these steps:
At the Windows logon screen, click Reset password
Insert the recovery CD, DVD or USB key
Follow the instructions on-screen to create a new password
Log onto the account using the new password
If the local account password is lost/forgotten, and a password reset disk is not available, reinstalling the operating system is the next best solution. For information on reinstalling Windows, refer to SLN291833
Occasionally when signed in to Hotmail, one might see an error like, "It looks like there’s a problem with Hotmail right now. It should be fixed soon, so please try again in a few minutes." These types of errors are temporary and are usually resolved quickly. One can also try troubleshooting the problem. If one forgets the password or know it but still can’t sign in, might need to reset the password to get access to the account for Hotmail, Messenger, and other Microsoft services. Here are some things which can be tried to help fix a sign-in problem:
Sign in to the account on a different computer/ try using a different computer on a different Internet connection. If the user can sign in on that computer, it's possible that there has been a temporary issue with the connection, computer, or browser settings. Here are some things that can be tried to resolve the issue with the computer:
Restart the computer
Check to see if the computer’s date and time are set correctly
Set your browser to accept third-party cookies
Check sign in to other Microsoft sites or services, such as Hotmail, SkyDrive, or MSN. If the user can sign in to one of these sites, the issue is likely with the site they were trying to sign in to, not with the account.
Check the firewall and antivirus programs
Check the documentation for the firewall or antivirus programs you're using, to see if they might be blocking the site you’re trying to access.
First check to make sure that the Caps Lock isn’t on, because passwords are case-sensitive. If unable to sign in even after using the correct password, the account might be compromised. Follow the below steps to reset the password:
Go to the Reset your password page
Choose the option that matches the problem, and then follow the instructions on the screen
Choose how to reset the password, and then follow the instructions