Do you have a computer running Windows 10 , but you can't log in to your user account ? Are you receiving a message that your account is locked or disabled ? Don't panic, there are solutions to unlock your account and regain access to your computer. In this article, we'll explain why your windows might be locked and how to unlock it.
What are the possible causes of a windows account being locked?
There are several reasons why your windows account locked . Some of the most common include:
- Entering your password incorrectly too many times Windows 10 having a security feature that locks your account after a certain number of failed login attempts. The number of attempts allowed may vary depending on your computer's configuration, but it is usually 5 or 10.
- A violation of the Microsoft account terms of service . If you use a Microsoft account to sign in to Windows 10, you must comply with the Microsoft services agreement. If Microsoft detects suspicious or abusive activity on your account, it may temporarily or permanently lock it. For example, if you send spam, malware, or illegal content from your account.
- A hardware or software problem with your computer. Your computer may be damaged or infected by a virus that prevents the operating system from functioning properly. For example, if your hard drive is faulty or your registry is corrupted.
How do I unlock my windows account?
To unlock your windowsaccount, you can try the following methods:
Method 1: Wait for the lockout period to end
If your account has been locked due to entering the wrong password too many times, you can wait until the lockout timer expires before trying to log in again. The lockout timer may vary depending on your computer's configuration, but it is usually 30 minutes. You can see the remaining time on the login screen.
Method 2: Reset the password
If you've forgotten your password or suspect it's been compromised, you can reset it to unlock your account. The procedure varies depending on whether you're using a local account or a Microsoft account.
- If you are using a local account, you must have previously created a password reset disk or USB drive with your login credentials. If so, follow these steps:
- Insert the disc or USB key into the computer and restart it.
- On the login screen, click Reset Password .
- Follow the on-screen instructions to choose the disk or USB drive and create a new password.
- Remove the disk or USB drive and restart the computer.
- Log in with your new password.
- Insert the disc or USB key into the computer and restart it.
- If you use a Microsoft account, you must have access to another verification method, such as a secondary email address, phone number, or authenticator app. If so, follow these steps:
- On the login screen, click on I forgot my password .
- Follow the instructions
- on the screen to choose the verification method and receive a security code.
- Enter the security code and create a new password.
- Restart your computer and log in with your new password.
You might also like this article: Reinstall and Repair the Photos app in Windows 10
Method 3: Use a different administrator account
If you have another user account with administrator privileges on the computer, you can use it to unlock your account. To do so, follow these steps:
- Log in with the administrator account and open Computer Management . You can access it by right-clicking the Start and choosing Computer Management .
- In the left pane, click on Local Users and Groups , and then on Users .
- In the right pane, right-click on the locked account name and choose Properties .
- In the General , uncheck the "Account is locked" and click OK .
- Log out of the administrator account and log back in with your account.
Method 4: Using the command prompt
If you don't have another administrator account or a password reset disk, you can try using the command prompt to unlock your account. To do this, follow these steps:
- F8 key repeatedly before Windows loads. This will give you access to the advanced startup options menu.
- Select Safe Mode with Command Prompt and press Enter .
- Once the command prompt opens, type the following command and press Enter Entrance :
- net user username /active:yes
- Replace username with the name of the locked account.
- Restart your computer normally and log in with your account.
Good to know: Black screen with visible mouse cursor: 4 solutions to fix it
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about windows account locking:
How can I prevent my windows account from locking out?
To prevent your windows account from being locked, you can take the following steps:
- Remember your password well or write it down in a safe place.
- Do not enter your password too quickly or too often if you make a mistake.
- Comply with the terms of use of your Microsoft account if you use one.
- Protect your computer from viruses and hardware damage.
How can I tell if my windows account is locked?
To find out if your windows account is locked, you can check if you receive a message indicating that your account is locked or disabled when you try to sign in. You can also check if you can access your Microsoft account from another device or web browser.
How can I unlock my Microsoft account if I don't have access to my verification method?
If you don't have access to your verification method to unlock your Microsoft account, you can try filling out an account recovery form. To do so, follow these steps:
- On the login screen, click on I forgot my password .
- Follow the on-screen instructions to enter your email address and the displayed security code.
- Click on "I have no information" when prompted to choose a verification method.
- Click on Fill out an account recovery form and follow the on-screen instructions to provide as much information as possible about your account and activity.
- Wait while Microsoft reviews your request and sends you a response by email. This can take up to 24 hours.
Conclusion
A locked windows account is a problem that can prevent you from accessing your computer and data. There are several possible causes for this issue, as well as several solutions. We hope this article has helped you understand why your windows account might be locked and how to unlock it. If you still have questions or comments, please let us know in the section below.
