How To Reset Your Ubuntu Password in Windows Subsystem for Linux

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss how to reset your Ubuntu password in the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). This process can be beneficial in situations where you have forgotten your password or need to update it for security reasons. We will cover three different methods to accomplish this task.

Introduction to Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a compatibility layer designed to run Linux binary executables natively on Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019. In simpler terms, it allows you to run Linux on your Windows machine without the need for a dual-boot setup or a virtual machine.

Prerequisites

Before we proceed, ensure that you have the following:

• Windows 10 or Windows Server 2019
• WSL installed on your system
• Basic knowledge of Linux commands

Method 1: Using the passwd Command

Step 1: Open the Linux Bash Terminal

First, open the Linux Bash terminal. This can be done by searching for “Bash” in the Windows start menu.

Step 2: Change the Password

In the terminal, type the following command:

passwd your_username

Replace your_username with your actual username. The passwd command is used to change the password of a user in a Linux system.

After running this command, you’ll be prompted to enter a new password. Once you’ve entered and confirmed your new password, the system will update your credentials.

Method 2: Changing the Default User to Root

This method involves changing the default user to root, resetting the password, and then changing the default user back to your username.

Step 1: Open the Windows Admin Command Prompt

Press Win+X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)”.

Step 2: Change the Default User to Root

In the command prompt, type the following command:

ubuntu config --default-user root

Note: If you are using Ubuntu 18.04 in WSL, the command changes to ubuntu1804 config --default-user root.

This command changes the default user to root. The config command is used to change the settings of the Ubuntu application, and --default-user changes the default user that the application runs as.

Step 3: Change the Password

Now, open the Linux Bash terminal again. You’ll be logged in as root without being asked for a password. Use the passwd command to change the password for your user:

passwd your_username

Step 4: Change the Default User Back to Your Username

After successfully changing the password, go back to the Windows command prompt and change the default user back to your username:

ubuntu config --default-user your_username

Note: If you are using Ubuntu 18.04 in WSL, use ubuntu1804 config --default-user your_username.

Method 3: Using PowerShell (for WSL1)

This method is applicable only for WSL1.

Step 1: Open Windows PowerShell

Press Win+X and select “Windows PowerShell”.

Step 2: Log in to the Ubuntu Root Account

In the PowerShell, type the following command:

wsl --user root

This command logs you into the Ubuntu root account.

Step 3: Change the Password

Now, change the password for the root user using the passwd command:

passwd

Enter the new password and confirm it when prompted.

Conclusion

In this guide, we’ve covered three different methods to reset your Ubuntu password in the Windows Subsystem for Linux. Remember to replace your_username with your actual username in the commands. Always ensure to keep your passwords secure and update them regularly to maintain the security of your system.

If you face any issues or have any queries, feel free to ask in the comments section below. Happy computing!