How to Reset a Microsoft 365 Password (Admin & User Guide)
Resetting a Microsoft 365 password is essential for accessing your account when you forget your credentials or lose access to a temporary password. This guide walks you through how to reset a Microsoft 365 password, manage temporary login credentials, and strengthen your account security with a strong password.
Important: Bluehost no longer offers Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) services. This article is exclusively for existing accounts currently using this service. We encourage you to transition to our Professional Email solutions and Google Workspace for enhanced functionality and support.
- Temporary Passwords
- Password Reset (User Flow)
- Create Strong Password
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Summary
How to Change a Temporary Password in Microsoft 365
When a user is assigned a Microsoft 365 license, they receive a temporary password. This temporary password must be copied manually and used to log in for the first time. Upon initial login, Microsoft prompts the user to change the password.
If the temporary password is lost or not saved, a password reset is required to access the account again.
How to Reset a Microsoft 365 Password (User Flow)
Important: Only admins can reset passwords for Microsoft 365 users.
Here's how a user can initiate a reset:
- Go to the Microsoft 365 Sign-In Page and click “Can’t access your account?”.
Note: If you can't find this link, use the self-service password reset tool to try resetting your password.
- Enter your work or school account and complete the verification challenge.
- Choose Email as your verification method.
- Check your alternate email for the verification code.
- Return to the sign-in window and enter the code.
Important note: You must respond within 60 minutes to the email and the text message. If you don't respond within 60 minutes, you must start over.
- Create a new password and confirm it.
- Once you receive confirmation, click the sign-in link to log in with your new password.
How Admins Can Reset a Microsoft 365 User’s Password
If you're an admin, you can reset a user’s password through your management portal:
- Log in to your admin dashboard.
- Navigate to Microsoft 365 > User Management.
- Find the user who needs a password reset.
- Click the ellipsis menu (...) next to the user and select Reset Password.
- Copy the temporary password and send it to the user.
- Instruct the user to log in and create a new password.
The user can then log in to the Microsoft portal with the temporary password. Once logged into Microsoft, users can change a temporary password in Microsoft 365 and choose their password.
How to Create a Strong Password for Microsoft 365
To keep your Microsoft 365 account secure:
- Use uppercase + lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid using personal info like birthdays or names.
- Make passwords at least 8 characters long.
- Don’t reuse passwords across accounts.
- Consider a password manager for secure storage.
A strong password is your first defense against unauthorized access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What if I didn’t receive the verification code via email?
A: Check your spam or junk folder. If you still don’t see the email, use the self-service password reset tool again or contact your Microsoft 365 administrator.
Q: Can I reset my Microsoft 365 password without admin access?
A: If you're not an admin, you'll need to use the self-service tool with a verified recovery email or contact your admin to reset it for you.
Q: Why does Microsoft ask me to change my password after logging in?
A: If you're using a temporary password, Microsoft requires a custom password for security. This is standard practice.
Summary
Even though Bluehost no longer sells new Microsoft 365 licenses, it’s crucial for existing users to know how to reset a Microsoft 365 password, especially when temporary passwords are lost. Whether you’re an admin assisting a user or someone accessing your account for the first time, resetting and securing your login credentials is key to account safety. Always create a strong password to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.