Locked Out User Account Guide

This document provides instructions for unlocking a locked-out user account in Active Directory.

Steps to Unlock a User Account

  1. If in the office and connected via Ethernet, open the Windows Search bar and launch Remote Desktop Connection. If working remotely, first connect to the Azure VPN.

  2. In Remote Desktop Connection, enter blkly-file3.bleakley.local as the computer name and sign in using your administrative credentials.

  3. Once connected, open Server Manager. In the upper-right corner, select Tools, then click Active Directory Users and Computers from the drop-down menu.

  4. Locate the locked-out user account. Right-click the user and select Properties.

  5. Navigate to the Account tab.

  6. Under Account Options, check the Unlock account box.

  7. Click Apply, then OK to save the changes.

The user account is now unlocked and the user may attempt to log in again.

Troubleshooting

User still locked out after unlock. Verify the changes were applied by checking the Account tab again. Allow 1-2 minutes for synchronization across domain controllers.

Cannot connect to blkly-file3.bleakley.local. If remotely, ensure VPN connection is established. If in office, verify network connectivity. Confirm the correct server FQDN is being used.

Active Directory Users and Computers not available in Tools menu. Ensure Remote Desktop session is connected to a domain controller or server with RSAT (Remote Server Administration Tools) installed.