How to Fix ‘The System is Not Authoritative for the Specified Account’ Error
Key Notes
- Resetting your Microsoft account password may resolve the issue.
- Switching to a local account can help bypass the error.
- The built-in Administrator account can be used to reset user passwords.
Resolving the ‘System Not Authoritative’ Error on Windows 10/11
If your Windows 10 or 11 device displays the error message ‘The system is not authoritative for the specified account and therefore cannot complete the operation’, you’re not alone. This guide provides actionable steps to troubleshoot this system error, which can occur during login attempts or account management tasks.
Troubleshooting Steps
Step 1: Reset Your Microsoft Account Password
Begin by resetting your Microsoft account password through the official Microsoft password recovery website. This is essential if you’re unable to modify your password via the local account due to system restrictions.
Pro Tip: Administrators cannot reset Microsoft account passwords directly; they must create a new local account if necessary.
Step 2: Switch to a Local Account
If you are having issues with your Microsoft account, consider switching to a local account. This can provide immediate access while bypassing the error.
Step 3: Update User Password Settings
Access the ‘Local Users and Groups’ management console: right-click on This PC, select Manage, navigate to Users, locate the user, and uncheck the ‘User cannot change password’ option to allow password changes.
Step 4: Change Password via Control Panel
For administrative accounts, open the Control Panel, navigate to User Accounts, select Manage another account, choose the target account, and click Change the password to proceed with your changes.
Step 5: Enable Built-in Administrator Account
If the previous methods fail, boot your PC into Safe Mode. From the login screen, hold the Shift key and restart your PC to access the Windows Recovery Environment. Run net user Administrator /active:yes in the Command Prompt to activate the built-in administrator account, log in, and change your password.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to deactivate the built-in administrator account after use with the command net user Administrator /active:no.
Additional Tips
- Always ensure your account recovery options are up-to-date in the Microsoft account settings.
- Consider using a standard account for daily tasks to minimize risks of unintended changes.
- Regularly backup important data to prevent loss during troubleshooting.
Summary
This guide provided a structured approach to resolving the ‘System is not authoritative for the specified account’ error on Windows 10/11. By following the steps highlighted, users should be able to regain access to their accounts effectively.
Conclusion
Encountering the ‘system is not authoritative’ error can be frustrating, but with the correct steps outlined above, you can navigate through the troubleshooting process efficiently. Don’t hesitate to act and restore access to your Windows accounts today.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What does the error ‘The system is not authoritative for the specified account’ mean?
This error indicates that your PC cannot authenticate your request with the specified account, often occurring during login or account management tasks.
Can I use Command Prompt to reset my Microsoft account password?
No, Microsoft account passwords must be reset via the online recovery portal; local accounts can be managed through Command Prompt.