If you’ve ever tried to log into your Windows 11 computer and received the dreaded message, “Your credentials could not be verified,” you’re not alone. This error can be frustrating, especially when you’re sure you’ve typed in the correct password or PIN. However, there’s good news: this issue is typically fixable with a few straightforward steps.
This error usually appears when attempting to log in with a Microsoft account or domain account. It can be caused by various factors such as incorrect time settings, corrupted login credentials, or network-related problems in domain-based environments.
What Causes the “Your Credentials Could Not Be Verified” Error?
Before diving into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand what might be triggering the error. Common causes include:
- Incorrect time and date settings – If your system clock is out of sync, authentication servers might block the login attempt.
- Corrupted user profile – Profile-related problems may prevent proper credential verification.
- Network issues – In domain environments, lack of access to a domain controller can cause this error.
- Cached credentials gone stale – When you’re offline, Windows relies on stored credentials that might be outdated or deleted.
Top Fixes for the Credential Verification Error
Depending on your scenario, any of the following fixes could resolve the problem. Try them in order until the issue is resolved.
1. Make Sure the Date and Time are Correct
Incorrect date or time can interfere with Windows validating your login credentials. Here’s how to fix it:
- Click on the Clock at the bottom-right of the screen and select Date and time settings.
- Toggle on Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
- Restart your PC and attempt to log in again.
2. Check Your Network Connection
If you are logging in using a domain or a Microsoft account, ensure the PC is connected to the internet. If you’re using Wi-Fi, reset your router or switch to Ethernet temporarily to isolate the issue.
3. Log In Using Safe Mode
Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and can help determine if third-party software is the issue.
- Hold down Shift and click Restart from the sign-in screen.
- Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings, and select 4) Enable Safe Mode.
- Try logging in with your credentials once Safe Mode opens.
4. Remove and Re-Add Your Microsoft Account
If you’re using a Microsoft account and nothing works, try removing and re-adding your account from another administrator account or using Safe Mode:
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Email & accounts.
- Select your Microsoft account and remove it.
- Reboot your system and go back to add the account again.
5. Recreate Corrupt User Profile
If your user profile is corrupted, creating a new user may be the easiest way forward:
- Boot into Safe Mode if you can’t access your desktop normally.
- Open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
- Click Add account and create a new user.
- Login with the new user and transfer any necessary files from the old user folder in C:\Users.
Extra Tips
If you continue to experience issues, here are a few bonus tips that may resolve stubborn login problems:
- Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as admin and run
sfc /scannowto repair system files. - Update Windows: Always ensure your system is running the latest updates by going to Settings > Windows Update.
- Use Local Account: If the issue stems from Microsoft account login, temporarily switch to a local account for access.
Final Thoughts
The “Your credentials could not be verified” error in Windows 11 doesn’t have a single root cause, which is why trying multiple methods may be necessary. Whether it’s syncing your system time, reconnecting to the network, or even creating a new user profile, one of these steps is likely to restore your access. Keep this guide handy just in case you or someone you know runs into the same problem again.
