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Password Expiration in Windows 11: How to Enable/Disable It

Setup password expiration to secure your account

6 min. read

Updated onMay 30, 2024

updated onMay 30, 2024

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Key notes

Password expiration is a feature that allows users to set a password that will be automatically changed every so often. This is because most people forget their passwords or are unsure about what they have been using for a long time.

To prevent unauthorized access to your accounts, you should regularlychange your password and username. It’s also advisable to enable password expiration in Windows 11 for extra security. If you don’t know how to, this article will come in handy to show you how to enable/disable password expiration.

Why should I set up password expiration in Windows 11?

Why should I set up password expiration in Windows 11?

You already know that having passwords on your accounts is a security measure to keep your files from unauthorized parties. However, if you use your password for too long, someone could be able to figure it out and get into your PC.

Setting up password expiration in Windows 11 can help improve your computer’s security. By allowing a time limit on the password that you have set, you can keep unwanted users from accessing your computer.

Other reasons include the following:

If you regularly forget your passwords, then setting up this feature will not help you much asWindows 11 doesn’t have a default password.

How do I stop my Microsoft password from expiring?

How do I stop my Microsoft password from expiring?

Before you proceed to the following steps, ensure the next are in check:

1. Use the Microsoft website

Note that this method will only work for users with active Microsoft accounts on their Windows devices. If you’re a local account user, proceed to the next two methods.

2. Use Computer Management

3. Use Command Prompt

How can I extend the password expiration time limit?

Although the default expiry period for local accounts is 42 days while Microsoft accounts are 72, you can extend the password expiration time limit to be less or more depending on how often you want to change your password. Follow the steps below to adjust the time limit:

For those who want to change their passwords regularly but have the habit of forgetting them easily, apassword manager with emergency accessshould be a must-have.

Other users prefer not to have passwords at all, so if you’re confident in the people around you and want to do away with passwords, you canenable automatic loginso that you don’t have to remember passwords.

However, if you’re not sure about giving full access to your PC, considerchanging the minimum PIN length for your Windows 11.

If you’re interested inadding a user to a Windows server, we also have an expert article that you need to check out for all the details.

Do let us know of any additional thoughts you may have on this topic down below.

More about the topics:Manage passwords,Windows 11

Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.

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Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.