Forum Discussion
Microsoft Account Already Exists (Windows 11)
While trying to change from account A to account B, I switched to a local account to make the transition smoother (as recommended). However, despite various attempts—including clearing the Credential Manager—I always receive the error: "Microsoft account already exists."
I realize this issue has never been properly resolved in various forums (learn), and other users have experienced the same problem over time, with the suggested solution often being to restore Windows 11. Is this really how defect management is handled at Microsoft? Have other users faced similar issues?
And this does not work either : https://learn.microsoft.com/fr-fr/office/troubleshoot/activation/another-account-already-signed-in
5 Replies
In my case the user account did exist, but it didnt show anywhere. Not on netplwiz, not on lusrmgr.msc, and of course not on the Users section of the Windows settings.
The only way to find it was using PowerShell in admin mode with "get-localuser". In my case, it showed the account as not enabled. In order to enable it I use the command "net user <username> /active:yes".
After enabling the account, business as usual.
Use the "netplwiz" method: Press Win+R, type netplwiz, uncheck the security box, and apply to enter the credentials for Account B, then restart. If that fails, you may need to use the "Reset this PC" option in Settings under System > Recovery.
It actually does not work. I feel this is one of those bugs that Microsoft should treat as a high priority, since resetting the Windows installation is not a reasonable workaround. Thank you for the contribution.
Hello,
See if this fix helps you:
Let us know if this helps!
Note: Included link in this reply refers to blog post by a trusted Microsoft MVP.
Thanks but not listed :(
