0x00000773 – Error_Password_Must_Change – the User’s Password Must Be Changed Before Logging on the First Time

The 0x00000773 error means a user must change their password before logging in for the first time.

This is a safety rule to protect accounts from being accessed by others. It usually happens when a new account is created or when moving to a new system.

Users might feel upset when they have to change their password right away.

To fix this error, check the account and follow the steps to reset the password.

Understanding this helps keep accounts safe and makes it easier to manage who can log in.

It's important to prevent this issue to ensure security.

Error meaning:

The "Password Must Change" error means you need to update your password to keep your account safe.

This usually happens to protect your information and prevent others from accessing your account without permission.

Causes:

1. First Login Requirement:

Users may need to change their password the first time they log in for security reasons.

2. New Accounts:

When an account is newly created, it often requires a password change to set a personal password.

3. System Migration:

If an account is moved from one system to another, it might need a password change for safety.

4. Strict Security Rules:

Some companies have rules that force users to change passwords to keep accounts safe.

5. Group Policies:

Sometimes, settings from the organization can accidentally make users change their passwords.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of the "Password Must Change" error:

  • Unable to log in to accounts.
  • Prompt asking for a password change before you can get in.
  • Notifications that the current password is expired.
  • Confusion about the need to change the password.
  • Frustration due to not knowing about the password change rule.
  • Extra system messages that make logging in harder.

Solutions:

Step 1: Check if the user account is active.

Make sure the account isn't locked or disabled.

Step 2: If the account is locked, unlock it using the admin tools available.

Step 3: Start the password reset process.

This means the user will need to make a new password.

Step 4: Ensure the user knows they must create a new password when they try to log in for the first time.

Step 5: Tell the user the rules for the new password.

Explain how many letters, numbers, or special characters they need to include.

Step 6: Think about using a self-service password reset tool.

This will help users reset their passwords without needing help from an admin.

Step 7: Check the system logs for any problems.

This way, you can find out if there are other issues that need fixing.

Impact:

Users may feel frustrated and confused when asked to change their password for the first time, making it harder for them to log in.

This frustration can slow down their access to important information and tools, which can lower how much work they get done.

If users don't understand how to change their password, they might ask for help more often, which can make IT staff busier and slow down their other work.

Requiring a password change can help make passwords stronger, but if users pick weak passwords or use the same ones they had before, it can make the system less safe.

Relevance:

Changing passwords is really important for keeping information safe, especially in Windows 10 and Windows 11.

When users log in for the first time, they must change their password. This helps protect against people who shouldn't be able to access the system.

Also, having to change passwords regularly teaches everyone how to keep their information safe. This practice helps keep things secure and builds trust in the organization.

Prevention:

  1. Create a strong password: Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
  2. Change your password right away: Always update your password when you first log in.
  3. Don't use the same password everywhere: Make each password unique for different sites.
  4. Learn about password safety: Understand why strong passwords are important.
  5. Keep an eye on your accounts: Regularly check for any unusual activity.
  6. Use extra security: Turn on multi-factor authentication for more protection.
  7. Get help if needed: Ask an adult if you're unsure about password management.

People Also Ask

How Can I Reset My Password if I Forget It?

If you forget your password, go to the login page and click on the "Forgot Password" link. Then, follow the steps to get a reset link sent to your email or phone. Make sure to choose a new password that is strong and easy to remember.

Is This Error Specific to Certain Operating Systems?

This error can happen on many different operating systems. It is not just one type. It usually happens when a system needs you to change a default password the first time you log in for safety reasons.

What Happens if I Ignore This Error Message?

If you ignore this error message, you might not be able to use the system. It says you need to change your password. Not doing this can slow down your work and make the computer network less safe. Always pay attention to these messages!

Can I Bypass the Password Change Requirement?

No, you should not try to bypass the password change requirement. Changing your password helps keep your information safe and secure. Following these rules is important for protecting both you and the organization's resources from bad people trying to steal information.

Does This Error Affect All User Accounts?

No, not all user accounts are affected by the error. It usually depends on the settings of each account and the rules of the organization. This means only some accounts might need to change their passwords when they log in for the first time.

Anand Thakur

Early on, I worked extensively on a project to find and fix errors in these systems, and I now share tips and solutions on my blog. I enjoy troubleshooting complex problems and find it rewarding to offer practical advice that makes technology more accessible for others.

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