How to Fix: "Password Does Not Meet Policy Requirements" in Windows 10 and Windows 11

Windows 10 and Windows 11 users may encounter the error “Password does not meet policy requirements,” particularly when attempting to set a simple or short password. This guide explains why this error occurs and provides steps to adjust or bypass password policies.

Why Does the "Password Does Not Meet Policy Requirements" Error Occur?

This error is due to Windows security settings that help protect the system from weak passwords. These policies can include minimum password length, mandatory character types (uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters), and periodic updates. These settings may be enforced at the operating system level or by a domain administrator in corporate environments.

Ways to Resolve the Issue

1. Check the Password Requirements

First, make sure your password meets the following requirements:

  • Minimum Length: Typically between 8 and 12 characters, depending on the settings.
  • Character Variety: At least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number, and one special character (e.g., @, #, $).

Try creating a password that meets these criteria to avoid the error.

2. Changing Password Policies via Local Security Policy

In Windows, you can adjust password settings using the Local Security Policy:

  1. Open Control Panel and go to Administrative Tools.
  2. Select Local Security Policy.
  3. Under Account Policies, go to Password Policy.
  4. Modify settings like Minimum Password Length and Password Complexity Requirements to make it easier to set a password.

3. Adjusting Password Policy Settings in Group Policy Editor (Windows Pro and Above)

If you're using Windows Pro or a higher edition, you can adjust these settings in the Group Policy Editor:

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. Go to Computer Configuration → Windows Settings → Security Settings → Account Policies → Password Policy.
  3. Here, you can adjust settings like minimum password length and complexity requirements.

4. Check Microsoft Account Security Settings

If you're using a Microsoft account, additional password requirements may be enforced by Microsoft’s policies. In this case, try setting a more complex password to meet the Microsoft account standards.