Error Message: Unable to Log You on Because of an Account Restriction (303846)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional
  • Microsoft Windows XP 64-Bit Edition
This article was previously published under Q303846

SYMPTOMS

When you try to connect to a Windows XP-based computer by using the Remote Desktop tool, you may receive the following error message:
Unable to log you on because of an account restriction.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur if the account you are using to connect with has a null (blank) password. You cannot establish Remote Desktop connections when you are using an account with a null password.

RESOLUTION

To work around this behavior so you can establish Remote Desktop connections, log on at the console of the computer, and then set a password for that user account so that it no longer has a null password.

STATUS

This behavior is by design.

MORE INFORMATION

You can disable blank password restrictions by using a policy. To locate and change this policy:
  1. Click Start, point to Run, type gpedit.msc, and then click OK to start the Group Policy Editor.
  2. Open Computer Configuration\Windows Settings\Security Settings\Local Policies\Security Options\Accounts: Limit local account use of blank passwords to console logon only.
  3. Double-click Limit local account use of blank passwords to consol logon only.
  4. Click Disabled, and then click OK.
  5. Quit Group Policy Editor.
NOTE: By default, this policy is on (enabled).

For additional information about how to configure user accounts in Windows XP, click the article number below to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

279783 How to Create and Configure User Accounts in Windows XP

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:10/18/2001
Keywords:kberrmsg kbprb KB303846
©2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.