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How to Fix Can’t Sign Into Account Error on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

Encountering a “Can’t Sign Into Account” error on Windows 10 can be frustrating. This issue prevents you from accessing your files and settings. Luckily, there are simple ways to fix it without needing advanced technical knowledge.

This guide will walk you through easy, step-by-step solutions to resolve the problem. Each step is explained clearly to help you understand what to do and why it matters.

By following these instructions, you can regain access to your account quickly and safely. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, this article covers all essential methods for fixing sign-in issues on Windows 10.

Quick Note: Before You Start

Before trying any fixes, make sure of the following:

  • Check your internet connection. A poor or disconnected network can cause sign-in problems, especially if you use a Microsoft account.
  • Verify your password. Confirm that the password you are entering is correct. Try typing it in a text editor to check for typos.
  • Restart your computer. Sometimes, a simple reboot can solve temporary glitches affecting sign-in.
  • Note your account type. Is it a local account or a Microsoft account? Some fixes differ depending on this.

Step 1: Use the On-Screen Keyboard to Enter Password

Sometimes, keyboard input issues cause sign-in failures. To rule this out, try using the on-screen keyboard:

  1. At the login screen, click the Ease of Access icon (bottom-right corner).
  2. Select On-Screen Keyboard.
  3. Use the on-screen keyboard to type your password carefully.

This step ensures your physical keyboard is not causing problems. If you can sign in this way, consider checking your keyboard or its settings.

Step 2: Restart in Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with minimal drivers and services, which helps identify if a third-party program is causing the issue.

  1. Press and hold the Shift key, then click Restart from the power menu on the sign-in screen.
  2. When the recovery options appear, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  3. Click Restart and wait for the Startup Settings menu.
  4. Press 4 or F4 to boot into Safe Mode.
  5. Try signing in while in Safe Mode.

If you can sign in here, the problem might be caused by recently installed software or drivers.

Step 3: Create a New User Account

If your current account is corrupted, creating a new user account may help:

  1. While in Safe Mode, press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. net user NewUserName NewPassword /add
  3. Replace NewUserName and NewPassword with your desired username and password.
  4. Restart your PC and try signing in with the new account.

This method helps determine if the issue is specific to your original account.

Step 4: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can prevent signing in. Running the SFC scan repairs these files:

  1. Boot into Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the process to complete. It may take some time.
  4. Restart your computer normally and try signing in again.

This scan checks and fixes important Windows files, which can resolve sign-in errors caused by file corruption.

Step 5: Reset Your Password

If you use a Microsoft account and can’t sign in, resetting your password online might help:

  • Visit the Microsoft Password Reset page using another device.
  • Follow the instructions to reset your password.
  • Once reset, return to your Windows 10 PC and try signing in with the new password.

This step ensures your account password is correct and synchronized with your PC.

Step 6: Disable Automatic Login and Re-enable It

Sometimes, toggling the automatic login setting can fix sign-in errors. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type netplwiz and press Enter.
  3. In the User Accounts window, check the box labeled Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer.
  4. Click Apply and then OK.
  5. Restart your PC and try signing in manually.
  6. If successful, you can repeat the steps and uncheck the box to enable automatic login again.

This resets the login process and can clear issues related to saved credentials.

Alternative Method: Use System Restore

If the problem started recently, restoring your system to an earlier point might help:

  1. At the sign-in screen, hold Shift and click Restart.
  2. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
  3. Choose a restore point dated before the issue began.
  4. Follow the prompts to restore your system.
  5. After restoration, try signing in again.

This method reverts your PC settings without affecting your personal files.

FAQs

Why do I get “Can’t Sign Into Account” on Windows 10?

This error can be caused by corrupted user profiles, incorrect passwords, system file errors, or problems with Microsoft account synchronization.

Can I recover my files if I can’t sign in?

Yes, by booting into Safe Mode or using a different account, you can access your files and back them up before further troubleshooting.

Is it safe to create a new user account to fix sign-in issues?

Yes, creating a new account helps identify if the problem is with your user profile. Your original data remains intact.

What if I forgot my Microsoft account password?

You can reset it online via the Microsoft Password Reset page using another device.

Will system restore delete my personal files?

No, system restore affects system files and settings but does not delete your personal documents or media.

When Nothing Works

If all the above steps fail to fix the sign-in issue, consider these final options:

  • Use the Windows 10 Recovery Environment to reset your PC. This allows you to reinstall Windows with an option to keep your files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support for professional assistance: https://support.microsoft.com.
  • Seek help from a trusted computer technician if you suspect hardware problems or complex software issues.

Conclusion

Dealing with “Can’t Sign Into Account” errors on Windows 10 can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Always start with simple checks like verifying your password and restarting your PC.

Safe Mode and system scans are powerful tools for diagnosing and fixing deeper problems. Creating a new user account or resetting your password often resolves account-specific issues.

Remember to back up important data regularly to avoid losing access in such situations. With patience and the methods outlined here, you should be able to regain access to your Windows 10 account smoothly.

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