How to Remove or Edit Windows Saved Passwords

Windows XP offers users the ability to retain passwords so that the authentication information required to login is automatically pre-populated when the different sites or resources are accessed rather than the user having to enter them each time. Because this requires being logged into the computer in the first place it provides some convenience for the user while remaining more secure than writing everything on a sticky note on the monitor. Unfortunately, it is still counter-productive from a security perspective because anyone who sits down at the computer while it is logged in or gains access to your computer user account will subsequently be able to access all of the various sites and resources as if they were the user because of the cached login credentials.

Windows XP does not offer a very easy way to review or remove the saved passwords though. If you follow the steps below though you can access a graphical interface to add, remove or edit the saved passwords on a given system.

1. Click Start and select Run

2. In the Open field type “rundll32.exe keymgr.dll, KRShowKeyMgr”

3. Once the Stored Usernames and Passwords interface opens you can select any of the entries and select Properties to view the existing information

4. To remove a saved password you can select one of the entries and select Remove. A confirmation screen will appear. Click on OK and the account will be removed

5. You can add additional saved passwords as well by clicking on the Add button and entering the appropriate information

6. Repeat the steps above as needed to add, remove or edit saved passwords

7. When you are done using the interface click the Close button

Now you are done!