Unable to log on because of an account restriction

Article ID: 303846 - Last Review: December 1, 2007 -
Revision: 1.3

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/303846

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:

• Click Start, point to Run, type gpedit.msc, and then click OK to start the Group Policy Editor.
  
• Open Computer Configuration\Windows Settings\Security Settings\Local Policies\Security Options\Accounts: Limit local account use of blank passwords to console logon only.
  
• Double-click Limit local account use of blank passwords to consol logon only.
  
• Click Disabled, and then click OK.
• Quit Group Policy Editor.

NOTE: By default, this policy is on (enabled).