Accounts
Clearing cached credentials in Windows after a password change
After a password change, Windows and apps can keep trying the old password from a saved credential, which triggers repeat prompts and even account lockouts. Clearing the cache stops the loop.
Why it happens
A saved credential for a share, a mailbox, or an app still holds the old password. Every automatic retry counts as a failed sign in, and enough of them lock the account.
Clear the saved entries
- Open Credential Manager and review both Windows and web credentials
- Remove entries tied to the affected resource, such as a mapped drive or mailbox
- Sign out and back in so fresh credentials are stored
Check the usual suspects
Mobile mail, mapped drives, and saved Wi-Fi or VPN profiles are the frequent holdouts. Update or re enter the password in each.
Confirm
Have the user work normally for a few minutes and confirm no new prompts or lockouts. Then note the cause, since this pattern repeats across users after any reset.