Fixing Account Lockout Print

Overview

This article provides step-by-step instructions to disable the account lockout feature for a local user account on a Windows system. Disabling the lockout feature prevents the account from being locked due to repeated failed login attempts. Note: While this change improves convenience, it reduces protection against brute force attacks.

Applicability

This guide applies to Windows systems where the user account is managed locally (i.e., not part of an Active Directory domain). The instructions below reference screenshots provided in this article to illustrate each step.

Steps to Disable the Account Lockout Feature

1. Launch the Local Security Policy Editor

• Action:

  • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. In the dialog, type secpol.msc and press Enter.
    or

  • Press Windows Key & Open Local Security Policy

2. Navigate to the Account Lockout Policy Settings

• Action:
  In the Local Security Policy window, expand Account Policies from the left-hand pane. Then, select Account Lockout Policy.

3. Modify the Account Lockout Threshold

• Action:
  In the right-hand pane, locate and double-click Allow Administrator account lockout Properties. In the properties window, set the value to Disabled. This action disables the lockout mechanism.

4. Save and Confirm Your Changes

• Action:
  After setting the threshold to Disabled, click OK to save your settings. This confirms that the account lockout feature is disabled.

Important Considerations

• Security Implications:
  Disabling the account lockout feature reduces a critical security layer designed to prevent unauthorized access via brute force attacks. Ensure that you have robust password policies and additional security measures in place.

• Regular Monitoring:
  Regularly review your system’s security logs and monitor account activity. Adjust security settings as needed to maintain system integrity.

• Best Practices:
  If disabling the lockout is necessary for operational reasons, consider implementing complementary security controls such as:

  • Using strong, complex passwords.

  • Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA).

  • Monitoring login attempts and other security events.