How to Change Password on Remote Desktop: Simple Steps to Secure Access - Ascendant Technologies, Inc. (2024)

Need to change your password on a remote desktop quickly? This guide covers easy methods on how to change password on remote desktop, including keyboard shortcuts, command line tools, and management tools. Learn the best way to secure your remote access now.

Key Takeaways

• Keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+Alt+End and the on-screen virtual keyboard can be used to change passwords easily in a Remote Desktop session.

• Command line tools such as Command Prompt and PowerShell provide efficient methods for updating passwords without using graphical interfaces.

• Advanced tools like the Computer Management Console, Active Directory Users and Computers, and automation scripts offer robust options for managing and changing passwords in remote desktop environments.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts to Change Password in Remote Desktop

How to Change Password on Remote Desktop: Simple Steps to Secure Access - Ascendant Technologies, Inc. (1)

Utilizing keyboard shortcuts can expedite the process of updating your password during a remote desktop session on a distant computer, allowing for an efficient remote desktop change password without interrupting your tasks. It is recommended to frequently refresh your remote desktop password to maintain security. The two main shortcuts available are Ctrl+Alt+End and using the virtual keyboard.

Both shortcuts operate seamlessly within the remote desktop connection window, providing you with access to essential functionalities without exiting from your ongoing remote session. We will now explore each method in detail.

Ctrl+Alt+End Shortcut

To change your password during a remote desktop session, you should use the key combination Ctrl+Alt+.End within the window of the remote desktop. This specific sequence is designed for functionality in remote sessions and will trigger the Windows Security Dialog on your remote machine, unlike using Ctrl+C.Alt+++.Del, which does not work remotely. After bringing up this security dialog, choose ‘Change a password’.

For updating your password successfully:

  1. Type in your current (old) password.

  2. Input your desired new password twice to verify it.

  3. Press Enter to finalize.

  4. Confirmation of updated credentials will be displayed.

Adhering to these steps ensures an easy and secure method for renewing access credentials with minimal difficulty while engaged in a remote desktop scenario.

On-Screen Virtual Keyboard

In instances where a shortcut requiring a physical keyboard is not possible, especially on devices that don’t accommodate the necessary key combination, the virtual on-screen keyboard becomes extremely useful. To activate this feature, hit Windows Key + R, enter ‘osk’, and then press Enter to summon the virtual interface.

Once you have brought up the on-screen keyboard, you can proceed with changing your password by taking these actions:

  1. On your real-world hardware keyboard, hold down both Ctrl and Alt.

  2. With a mouse or other pointing device select Del from the displayed screen-based keyboard.

  3. This action will present you with the Security Options dialogue box.

  4. From here use your pointer to select and alter your security details accordingly.

This technique guarantees control over password management even in the absence of hands-on access to an entire traditional keystroke-input device (physical full-size keyboards).

Changing Password via Command Line Tools

How to Change Password on Remote Desktop: Simple Steps to Secure Access - Ascendant Technologies, Inc. (2)

Individuals adept at using command line interfaces will find updating their password through the Command Prompt or PowerShell to be an effective and quick method. These utilities allow for a straightforward approach to modify your login details, bypassing the need for graphical user interface navigation.

Command line resources are known for their agility and adaptability, qualities which often make them favored by IT experts. We’ll delve into how one can utilize both Command Prompt and PowerShell to alter your password during a remote desktop session.

Using Command Prompt with ‘net user’

Initiate a password alteration by accessing the Command Prompt with enhanced permissions. Navigate to the Start menu, locate ‘Command Prompt’, then right-click and opt for ‘Run as administrator’. With CommandPrompt now active, you can begin resetting your password through the ‘net user’ command.

Enter ‘net user [username] [newpassword]’ into the prompt and press Enter. Upon completion, a message will confirm that your password change is successful. This method provides an efficient and secure way to update your access details quickly. For more extensive account management capabilities, employ the “netuser administrator” command for supplementary choices.

PowerShell Commands

PowerShell provides a formidable alternative for password modification. To change your password, you need to initiate PowerShell with administrative privileges and execute the ‘Set-LocalUser’ cmdlet alongside your username and desired new password like so: Set-LocalUser -Name “username” -Password (ConvertTo-SecureString -AsPlainText “NewDirectory” -Force).

If you’re working within an Active Directory framework, make use of the ‘Set-ADAccountPassword’ cmdlet to update user passwords. Before executing this command, confirm that you’ve imported the necessary Active Directory module with ‘Import-Module Active Directory’. These commands deliver an efficient means of handling passwords while using remote desktop.

Changing Password with Windows Management Tools

How to Change Password on Remote Desktop: Simple Steps to Secure Access - Ascendant Technologies, Inc. (3)

Windows Management. Tools present an alternative method for password alteration, delivering a more visually appealing and intuitive experience than command line methods. The Computer Management Console and Active Directory Users and Computers are particularly beneficial to administrators who oversee numerous accounts.

These utilities afford extensive control over user accounts, including the ability to modify passwords directly. Below is a guide on effectively harnessing these tools for this purpose.

Computer Management Console

Accessing the Computer Management Console is a capability reserved for those with administrative privileges. To utilize it, perform the following actions:

  1. In your remote desktop’s menu search bar, look up ‘Computer Management’.

  2. Proceed to ‘System Tools’.

3.in this area select ‘Local Users and Groups’.

4.Finally, choose ‘Users’ to view available user accounts.

For modifying a password within a user account, right-click on the relevant account and opt for ‘Set Password’. You will then be guided through steps where you’ll input and verify your new chosen password. This approach offers an intuitive graphical interface that simplifies the management of users’ credentials.

Active Directory Users and Computers

Active Directory Users and Computers is a valuable utility for managing passwords when your remote desktop belongs to a domain. To reset a password with Active Directory Users and Computers, perform the following steps:

  1. Initiate Active Directory Users and Computers.

  2. Locate the user account you want to manage.

  3. Perform a right-click on the selected user account.

  4. Select ‘Reset Password’ from the context menu.

This feature serves administrators remarkably well when they are overseeing several users in a domain setting, providing an alternative that parallels features found in Computer Management Console while catering specifically to domains environment needs.

Using Scripts to Change Password in Remote Desktop

How to Change Password on Remote Desktop: Simple Steps to Secure Access - Ascendant Technologies, Inc. (4)

Individuals inclined towards automation will find that scripts greatly simplify the task of updating passwords during remote desktop sessions. Employing VBS or Shell commands allows for the automation of necessary actions to change your login details.

These scripts reduce the need for hands-on involvement, making them ideal for settings in which there is a regular requirement to manage several users’ passwords. Below is an explanation on how one can employ VBA scripts and Shell commands effectively for this purpose.

VBS Script Method

You can streamline the process of password modification by using a VBS script. This script is capable of automatically launching the Windows Security Options and entering new credentials on your behalf. To produce such a script, you must compose particular code lines that trigger the appearance of the Windows Security Options.

Consider constructing a VBS file named securityoptions.vbs which includes creating an object for Shell Application and executing its method called WindowsSecurity. Once saved, running this file will assist in altering your password efficiently while minimizing human mistakes.

Shell Command Method

Utilizing shell commands is a powerful strategy for streamlining the process of updating your password. By directly calling upon Windows Security Options, it’s possible to initiate a credential reset without needing to manually navigate through menus. The command C:Windowsexplorer.exe shell:2559a1f2-21d7-11d4-bdaf-00c04f60b9f0, when executed, launches the dialog necessary for altering passwords within the Windows Security context.

For this procedure to work effectively, one must input this specific instruction into either PowerShell or Command Prompt while operating under administrative rights. Following its activation, you will be granted entry into the Security Options panel from where you can proceed with setting a new password. This route is exceptionally convenient for users who have a preference towards working with command line environments.

Resetting an Expired Password in RDP Session

Managing an expired password during a remote desktop session can be challenging. Typically, when faced with this issue, it is necessary to reset your password rather than just updating it. Particularly when operating on Windows Server 2012 or newer versions, resetting a forgotten or expired password necessitates the intervention of IT support staff.

Being familiar with the process for resetting an expired password can greatly reduce annoyance and minimize interruptions in productivity. Below are the best practices you should follow to effectively handle such circumstances.

Contacting IT Support

If your password has reached its expiration, it’s usually essential to reach out to IT support. They can employ secure procedures for resetting your password, maintaining the security of your account. It is common practice for them to issue a temporary password that you are expected to update without delay upon initial login.

During the process of resetting your password, IT support will likely use multi-factor authentication as a means of confirming who you are. By doing so, they make certain that the reset operation remains safe and prevents any potential compromise to your account during this phase.

Logging Out Properly

Exiting your remote desktop session correctly can prevent problems related to password expiration. By doing so, you will be alerted about when your password is due to expire in a timely manner and it also enables the system to carry out required updates and security audits.

Developing the routine of setting reminders for logging off at day’s end is beneficial. Such a practice keeps you informed regarding upcoming changes to your password and contributes to preserving the integrity of your remote desktop sessions.

Advanced Alternatives to RDP for Password Management

RDP, though common, is surpassed by sophisticated options which bolster security and simplify the handling of passwords for remote desktops. AnyViewer stands out as a notable example offering potent capabilities in this domain.

AnyViewer takes both safety measures and user ease to new heights by facilitating direct access to remote systems without requiring either VPN configurations or port forwarding adjustments. Let’s delve into the functionalities that AnyPrivateer delivers specifically concerning password administration.

AnyViewer Software

AnyViewer stands out as a superb substitute for conventional remote desktop protocol applications. Its ability to facilitate one-click access to devices that are registered under a unified account enhances user convenience significantly. AnyViewer comes with a mobile version which permits the management of PCs directly from your smartphone.

Signing in on both the source and destination machines is required to utilize AnyViewers capabilities effectively. The software guarantees secure remote connections while also streamlining password management, ensuring an effortless experience for users navigating its features.

Summary

To encapsulate, updating your password during a remote desktop session is essential for ensuring security. This tutorial has equipped you with various techniques to secure your credentials, be it through keyboard shortcuts, command line utilities, Windows management instruments or sophisticated options like AnyViewer.

It’s crucial to acknowledge the importance of frequent password changes and appropriate sign-off procedures in safeguarding your remote sessions. Adhering to these strategies will help maintain the safety and continuity of your remote desktop interactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ctrl+Alt+End shortcut used for in a remote desktop session?

In a remote desktop session, you can use the Ctrl+Alt++ keys.End keyboard shortcut to quickly summon the Windows Security Dialog for tasks such as changing your password, bypassing the need to go through various menus.

How can I change my password using the Command Prompt?

Open Command Prompt as an administrator to update your password, then utilize the ‘net user’ command along with your username and the new desired password.

What should I do if my password expires during an RDP session?

Reach out to your IT support team for a secure reset of your password and acquire a temporary one to use during your RDP session, ensuring that all secure protocols are adhered to in the process.

Can I use scripts to change my password in a remote desktop session?

Certainly, it is feasible to automate the process of changing a password within a remote desktop session by employing VBS (Visual Basic Scripting) scripts or utilizing Shell commands.

What are the benefits of using AnyViewer over traditional RDP software?

Utilizing AnyViewer instead of conventional RDP software offers advantages such as improved security measures, the simplicity of one-click remote access, and the capability to oversee remote desktops without the need for port forwarding or establishing a VPN.

How to Change Password on Remote Desktop: Simple Steps to Secure Access - Ascendant Technologies, Inc. (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Catherine Tremblay

Last Updated:

Views: 5773

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (67 voted)

Reviews: 82% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Catherine Tremblay

Birthday: 1999-09-23

Address: Suite 461 73643 Sherril Loaf, Dickinsonland, AZ 47941-2379

Phone: +2678139151039

Job: International Administration Supervisor

Hobby: Dowsing, Snowboarding, Rowing, Beekeeping, Calligraphy, Shooting, Air sports

Introduction: My name is Catherine Tremblay, I am a precious, perfect, tasty, enthusiastic, inexpensive, vast, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.