Active Directory (AD) Account Lockout Guide

Summary: This article explains what to do if your CCS account is locked out and how to quickly regain access.

For staff and students

Overview

If you enter your password incorrectly too many times, your account may become locked out.

This is a security feature to protect your account.

  • 10 failed attempts will lock your account
  • The lockout lasts 5 minutes
If you keep trying the wrong password, the lockout timer will restart.

What You May See

Error message:

“The referenced account is currently locked out and may not be logged on to.”

Account Lockout Message

What You Should Do

✅ Option 1: Wait for Automatic Unlock

  • Wait 5 minutes
  • Do not try to log in during that time
  • After 5 minutes, try again with the correct password

This is usually the fastest solution.


✅ Option 2: Unlock Your Account (Self-Service)

You can unlock your account using the Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) tool:

  1. Go to Self-Service Password Reset
  2. Select “I can’t access my account”
  3. Enter your username
  4. Select “I know my password, but still can’t sign in”
  5. Follow the steps to verify your identity

SSPR Unlock Option


✅ Option 3: Contact the Help Desk

  • Phone: 614-365-8425
  • Hours: Monday – Friday, 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • The Help Desk can unlock your account and reset your password if needed

Why This Happens

Most lockouts happen because something is using an old or incorrect password.

  • Saved passwords on phones or tablets
  • Email apps or background apps
  • Old passwords stored on laptops
Even if you enter the correct password, another device could still be causing the lockout.

How to Prevent It

  • Update your password on all devices (phone, laptop, apps)
  • Remove old saved passwords
  • Make sure email apps are using your current password

Still Having Issues?

  • If your account keeps locking, something is still using the wrong password
  • Document when the lockout happens (time, device, location)
  • Contact IT for further investigation

If needed, submit a request through the CCS IT Service Desk.