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Can't log into user account

Solution​

as of 2023-01-04

You need any bootable password remover tool. This example will use the toolkit of Hiren's Boot CD.

This is a Windows PE, equipped with tools for system administrators. Since it's a live Windows, you need to make the ISO file bootable. Either with Rufus, or with Ventoy.

When you boot into the WinPE:

  • Close the network window, you will not need internet access for this
  • Open the Utilities folder on the desktop
  • Then go to the Security\Passwords folder
  • Run Windows Login Unlocker
  • Select your user from the list. It will show the username you gave it after installing ReviOS
  • Click Reset\Unlock
  • After it is complete, reboot into your ReviOS instance, and you should be able to log in

At this point, the relation of the linked Microsoft account and local user is confusing. In the past, this problem could be avoided by setting a PIN code, not just a password, but here, the MS account is still attached, but there is no password on the user. And if set a local one, that will be used. And no PIN is required (meaning the bug is gone).

Either way, it's recommended to either detach the MS account from the user or set a password and PIN, just to be safe.

Please read the previous statuses of the problem below for more information.

Update 2022-07-24

In ReviOS 22.07 (Windows 10 and 11) and above this problem is resolved. Even if you do not set a password at installation, and evade setting a PIN code when logging into your Microsoft account, at the login screen a window will pop up, and after logging in again with your MS account, you have to set a PIN code.

The PIN code forcing can be disabled in Settings -> Accounts -> Sign-in options with For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device (Recommended) after logging in with your MS account and setting a PIN code. Then you can delete the PIN code, if you want to.

Previously

This is happening, because of the connection of a Microsoft account to the local user. Right now the only fix is to reinstall your OS, and after you log into your Microsoft account set a PIN code too.

Other technique to evade the bug, is to log into your Microsoft account in the Microsoft Store. That way you will not be locked out and still can use your PC without a PIN code. Partial solution reported with this message on our Discord.

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