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Sometimes, you might want to remove a device from your Microsoft account but find that it just won’t go away. This can be frustrating, especially if the device is no longer in use or you want to tidy up your account.

Windows 11 users often face this issue when trying to manage their devices online. Fortunately, there are several straightforward steps you can follow to fix this problem.

This guide will walk you through simple solutions to help you remove unwanted devices from your Microsoft account without hassle.

By following these steps carefully, you can ensure your account only shows the devices you currently use.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks Before You Begin

Before you start trying to remove a device, make sure you have the following:

• A stable internet connection. Removing devices requires syncing with Microsoft’s servers.
• Access to the Microsoft account associated with the device. You will need to log in to manage devices.
• Verify that the device you want to remove is not currently in use or connected to your account through any active sessions.

Step 1: Remove Device via Microsoft Account Website

The simplest way to remove a device is to use the Microsoft account management page online. This is where Microsoft keeps a list of all devices linked to your account.

1. Open your web browser and go to https://account.microsoft.com/devices.
2. Sign in with your Microsoft account email and password.
3. Once signed in, you will see a list of all devices linked to your account.
4. Find the device you want to remove, and click on Show details or the device name.
5. Click on Remove device.
6. Confirm your choice by clicking Yes or Remove in the confirmation prompt.

This step helps Microsoft know that you no longer use this device, which can improve account security and reduce clutter.

Step 2: Sign Out of the Device Remotely

If removing from the website does not work, try signing out remotely from the device. This disconnects the device from your account and can allow it to be removed afterward.

1. Go back to the same Microsoft devices page and sign in.
2. Select the device you want to remove.
3. Look for an option called Sign out or Sign out of this device.
4. Click on it and confirm the sign-out.
5. After signing out, try removing the device again using the steps from Step 1.

Signing out removes the device’s access tokens, which might be preventing removal.

Step 3: Clear Device Sync Settings on the Device Itself

Sometimes, the device won’t be removed because it is still syncing with your Microsoft account.

To fix this, you need to disconnect the device from your account locally:

1. On the device you want to remove, open Settings.
2. Go to Accounts » Access work or school or Your info (depending on your Windows 11 version).
3. Find your Microsoft account and select Disconnect.
4. Follow the prompts to sign out and remove your account from that device.

After disconnecting, revisit the Microsoft account website to remove the device.

Step 4: Use Windows PowerShell to Remove Device (Advanced)

If the above methods fail, you can use Windows PowerShell to remove devices registered to your user profile.

Note: This method is more technical and should be done carefully.

1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

dsregcmd /status

This command shows if your device is registered with Azure AD.

3. If the device is registered, type the following command to unregister it:

dsregcmd /leave

This will disconnect the device from your Microsoft account and Azure Active Directory.

After this, check the Microsoft account devices page again to see if the device was removed.

Alternative Method: Contact Microsoft Support

If none of the above options work, Microsoft Support can assist you. Sometimes, devices remain listed due to server-side errors or account issues.

You can reach Microsoft support via:

• Microsoft Support website
• Phone support (check your region’s Microsoft contact number)
• Microsoft Community forums for advice from other users

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why can’t I remove my device from Microsoft account?

The device may still be linked through active sessions or syncing, or there may be a temporary server issue. Ensuring the device is signed out and disconnected locally helps.

Will removing a device delete any files?

No, removing a device from your Microsoft account does not delete files on the device. It simply removes the association with your account.

Can I re-add the device later?

Yes, if you sign back into your Microsoft account on the device, it will automatically be added again.

Is it safe to remove old devices from my account?

Yes, it is recommended to remove devices you no longer use to keep your account secure and organized.

What if the device is offline or turned off?

You can still remove it from the Microsoft account website. The device will no longer have access once it reconnects.

When Nothing Works

If after trying all the steps the device still can’t be removed, consider the following final options:

• Wait 24-48 hours and try again. Sometimes server updates take time to reflect.
• Clear your browser cache or try a different browser when accessing the Microsoft devices page.
• Reset your Microsoft account password to ensure no unauthorized access.
• Contact Microsoft Support for direct assistance with your account.

Here is the official Microsoft device management page for reference: https://account.microsoft.com/devices

Conclusion

Removing a device from your Microsoft account on Windows 11 can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Start by removing the device through the Microsoft account website, then try signing out remotely and disconnecting the device locally if needed.

For advanced users, PowerShell offers a way to unregister devices, while Microsoft Support is always available for help.

Keeping your Microsoft account’s device list clean improves security and helps you manage your connected devices better.