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How to Reset an Intune-Managed Windows Device Without Signing In

Huda Qurayshi Oct 23, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to reset a Windows device registered with Microsoft Entra ID and Intune but cannot log in because the local password is forgotten.

How to Reset an Intune-Managed Windows Device Without Signing In

Product: Microsoft Intune
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Attempting to factory reset or restore a managed Windows device without having access to the local user account credentials.
Observed behavior: The user is locked out of the device at the sign-in screen and cannot proceed with standard local reset procedures.

Before you start

Ensure the device is connected to a stable internet network so it can receive remote wipe or reset commands issued from the Intune administration portal.

Solution 1Recommended

Perform an Autopilot Reset or Fresh Start Remotely

Use the Microsoft Intune Admin Center to issue a remote reset command, which bypasses the need for local device credentials.

Since the device is managed by Intune, an IT administrator can remotely trigger a reset. Fresh Start and Autopilot Reset are two built-in options that have specific prerequisites and require the device to be online.

Access the Intune Admin Center

Locate the Device

Navigate to 'Devices', select 'Windows', and find the specific device that needs to be reset in the device list.

Initiate the Reset Command

Click on the device name to open its management page, then click on 'Autopilot Reset' or 'Fresh Start' from the top menu bar to begin the process.

Perform an Autopilot Reset or Fresh Start Remotely

Administrative Access Required: This method requires you to have IT administrator access to your organization's Microsoft Intune environment. If you are an end-user, you must contact your IT helpdesk.

Solution 2

Request Assistance in Microsoft Q&A

Seek expert guidance from Microsoft's official support community to ensure the reset method chosen does not negatively impact your Intune enrollment data.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Autopilot Reset and Fresh Start in Intune?

Autopilot Reset removes personal files, apps, and settings but maintains the device's Entra ID connection and Intune enrollment so it is ready for the next user. Fresh Start removes pre-installed OEM apps, updates the device to the latest Windows version, and can optionally retain user data.

Can an end-user reset an Intune-managed device from the lock screen?

Typically, organizations disable the local Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) or standard lock-screen reset options for security and compliance reasons. In most cases, an IT administrator must issue the reset command remotely via the Intune portal.

Will resetting an Intune device remove it from Microsoft Entra ID?

It depends on the wipe method chosen. A standard 'Wipe' might remove the device record from Intune and Entra ID unless configured otherwise, while an 'Autopilot Reset' is specifically designed to retain the Entra ID join state.

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