How to Set a Minimum Password Length in Windows 10

If you want to enhance the security of your Windows 10 system, setting a minimum password length is a step you should take. By configuring a minimum password length, you ensure that users accessing your computer use stronger passwords, thus reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Let's walk through how to do this.

Steps to Set a Minimum Password Length in Windows 10

  1. Open the Local Group Policy Editor

    First, press Win + R to open the Run dialog. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter. This will open the Local Group Policy Editor.

  2. Navigate to Security Settings

    In the Local Group Policy Editor, follow this path:

    Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Security Options
  3. Edit the Password Policy

    In the "Security Options" section, find the setting named Minimum Password Length and double-click on it.

  4. Set the Minimum Password Length

    A window will appear with the settings. Set your desired minimum password length (for example, 8 characters or more). Click OK to save your changes.

  5. Restart Your Computer

    After making these changes, it’s recommended to restart your computer for the settings to take effect.

Additional Recommendations

For even better security, you may also want to enable other policies, such as requiring password complexity or enforcing regular password changes. These settings can be found in the same areas of the Group Policy Editor and can be tailored to your needs.

By following these steps, you can easily set a minimum password length in Windows 10, increasing the security of your system.