Fix: Windows 10 Can't Sign into Microsoft Account

Isabella Shinn

Updated: May 8, 2025

Upgraded to Windows 10 and initially set up a local account. Now, attempting to switch to a Microsoft account via Start > Settings > Accounts results in a "Something went wrong" error, preventing sign-in.

Struggling to switch from a local account to a Microsoft account in Windows 10? This hinders access to Cortana, Microsoft Store, and other features. This page offers practical solutions to resolve the issue.

Common Issues:

Part 1: Can't Sign into Microsoft Account - "Something went wrong"

Many Windows 10 users encounter the "Something went wrong" error when attempting to sign into their Microsoft account, either during the initial setup or when accessing Cortana/Windows Store. Various factors contribute to this issue.

Solution 1: Check Network Speed

A slow or disconnected internet connection can prevent successful sign-in to Microsoft account. Ensure a stable network connection and attempt sign-in again.

If network issues aren't the cause, try the following solutions.

Solution 2: Create a New Local Account

A problematic user profile might be the reason. Creating a new local admin account can resolve the issue.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as administrator.

Step 2: Type net user <username> /add (e.g., net user iSumsoft /add) and press Enter to create a new local user account. Then, type net localgroup Administrators <username> /add and press Enter to grant admin privileges.

Step 3: Sign out of the current account, sign in with the new local admin account, and attempt to switch to a Microsoft account.

Tips: This method has proven effective for many Windows 10 users.

Solution 3: Verify Microsoft Account Sign-in Assistant Service

The Microsoft account sign-in assistance service might be disabled, causing sign-in issues.

Step 1: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type services.msc, and click OK.

Step 2: In the Services window, locate Microsoft Account Sign-in Assistant Service and double-click it.

Step 3: Ensure the service is started and set the startup type to Automatic or Manual. Click Apply and OK to save changes.

Step 4: Restart the computer and attempt to sign in with the Microsoft account.

If the issue persists, try the following solutions.

Solution 4: Troubleshoot with a Program

Step 1: Download the Microsoft Accounts troubleshooter program.

Step 2: Run the program, which automatically detects and fixes invalid settings. Click Next and wait for the troubleshooting to complete.

Step 3: Once issues are resolved, restart Windows 10 and attempt to sign in to the Microsoft account.

If the problem remains, a system reinstall might be necessary.

Part 2: Can't Sign into Microsoft Account - Incorrect Password

If the issue is an incorrect password, resetting it can resolve the problem.

(1) For Microsoft accounts linked to local accounts, reset the password at https://account.live.com/resetpassword.aspx.

(2) For standalone Microsoft accounts on Windows 10, reset the password from the login screen or use Windows Password Refixer.