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Account lockouts on Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially when you don’t know the cause. These lockouts often happen due to incorrect password attempts or system policies. Understanding how to troubleshoot Account Lockout Event ID errors helps you regain access quickly.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step methods to identify and fix these errors. No advanced knowledge is required, and each step is explained clearly. Whether you are a beginner or experienced user, these instructions will assist you in resolving account lockout problems efficiently.

By following this guide, you will learn how to check event logs, identify the source of lockouts, and apply fixes to prevent future occurrences. Let’s get started on resolving those frustrating lockout errors on your Windows 11 machine.

Keep your patience as we go from the easiest checks to more detailed troubleshooting techniques. This structured approach ensures you don’t miss anything important.

Quick Note: Before You Start

• Make sure you have administrator access on your Windows 11 PC. Without admin rights, some troubleshooting steps won’t be possible.
• Have your username and password handy so you can test access after each step.
• It’s helpful to know the approximate time when the account lockout occurred. This will help when checking event logs.
• Ensure your Windows 11 system is updated. Sometimes, updates fix underlying bugs related to account policies.

Step 1: Check the Event Viewer for Account Lockout Details

The first step is to find the exact cause of the lockout by reviewing the Event Viewer logs. Windows records account lockout events with specific Event IDs.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type eventvwr.msc and press Enter to launch Event Viewer.
3. In the left pane, navigate to Windows Logs > Security.
4. Look for events with the Event ID 4740. This ID indicates a user account was locked out.
5. Click on the event to view its details. You will find the locked-out user account and the time of the lockout.

Why this is important: Identifying the exact time and account helps you correlate the lockout to specific activities or devices causing the issue.

Step 2: Identify the Source of the Lockout

Once you know which account was locked out, the next step is to find out what caused it. Common sources include incorrect password attempts from devices or services.

1. Check the Caller Computer Name in the event details to see which device triggered the lockout.
2. If the Caller Computer Name is empty, it could be a service or scheduled task using outdated credentials.
3. Verify any recently changed passwords to ensure all devices and services are updated with the new password.
4. Check for any mapped drives, VPN connections, or applications that might be using old credentials.

Why this step matters: Lockouts often happen because a device or service repeatedly tries to log in with wrong credentials. Fixing these prevents repeated lockouts.

Step 3: Reset or Unlock the Locked Account

If the account is still locked, you need to unlock it before testing fixes.

1. Open Computer Management by right-clicking the Start button and selecting it.
2. Navigate to Local Users and Groups > Users.
3. Right-click the locked user account and select Properties.
4. Uncheck the box for Account is locked out.
5. Click Apply and then OK.

If you are in a domain environment, you will need to unlock the account using Active Directory Users and Computers or contact your IT administrator.

Step 4: Update Stored Credentials on Devices and Services

After unlocking the account, make sure all devices, services, and applications use the correct password.

• On each device, update saved passwords for network drives, email clients, or VPNs.
• Check Windows Credential Manager (Control Panel > Credential Manager) and delete any outdated credentials.
• Restart devices or services if needed to apply new credentials.

This step prevents the account from being locked out again due to repeated failed login attempts.

Step 5: Review Account Lockout Policy Settings

Lockout policies determine how many failed attempts cause a lockout and how long the lockout lasts. Reviewing and adjusting these settings can reduce unnecessary lockouts.

1. Press Windows + R, type secpol.msc, and press Enter to open Local Security Policy.
2. Go to Account Policies > Account Lockout Policy.
3. Check settings such as:
   • Account lockout threshold: Number of failed attempts before lockout.
   • Account lockout duration: How long the account remains locked.
   • Reset account lockout counter after: Time before the failed attempt counter resets.
4. Adjust these values if they are too strict based on your security needs.

Be cautious: Relaxing lockout policies can reduce security, so balance convenience and protection carefully.

Advanced Option: Use Account Lockout Status Tools

For domain environments, Microsoft offers tools like Account Lockout and Management Tools that provide detailed info on lockouts.

• The LockoutStatus.exe tool shows lockout info for domain accounts.
• This helps admins pinpoint the source computer causing the lockout in complex networks.

These tools require domain admin rights and are useful for IT professionals managing multiple accounts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Event ID 4740?

Event ID 4740 is a security log entry indicating a user account was locked out due to too many failed login attempts.

Why does my account keep getting locked out even though I’m using the correct password?

Often, other devices or services are still trying to use old passwords, causing repeated failed attempts and locking your account.

Can I prevent account lockouts entirely?

While you can reduce lockouts by updating credentials and adjusting policies, it’s not recommended to disable lockouts entirely because they protect against brute-force attacks.

How do I know which device caused the lockout?

Check the Caller Computer Name in Event Viewer under Event ID 4740. This shows the source device triggering the lockout.

Do I need to restart my computer after unlocking the account?

Usually, no restart is needed, but restarting affected devices or services using the account’s credentials can help apply changes.

When Nothing Works

If you have followed all steps carefully and still face account lockout issues, consider these final options:

• Contact your IT administrator or support team for advanced troubleshooting.
• Use Microsoft’s official documentation and support forums for help:
  • Microsoft Event ID 4740 Documentation
  • Microsoft Support
• Consider resetting your password entirely and updating it on all devices promptly.
• In domain environments, ensure no group policies are causing unexpected lockouts.

Conclusion

Account lockout errors on Windows 11 can be resolved by carefully checking event logs, identifying the source, unlocking the account, and updating passwords on all devices. Reviewing lockout policies helps balance security and usability. By following this step-by-step guide, you can troubleshoot and fix account lockouts effectively, minimizing downtime and frustration.

Remember, patience and systematic troubleshooting are key. If needed, use advanced tools or seek professional help to address complex issues. Keeping your system and credentials up to date will prevent most future lockouts.