Seeing the error message “Sync is not available for your account” on Windows 10 can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your Microsoft account to keep settings and preferences consistent across devices. This issue commonly occurs due to account restrictions, system policies, or incorrect settings. Fortunately, there are effective methods to fix this error and restore sync functionality on your Windows 10 system.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons for this error and provide step-by-step solutions to get your Windows sync working again.
1. Check If You’re Using a Microsoft Account
The sync feature in Windows 10 only works with a Microsoft account. If you’re signed in with a local account, you’ll see a sync-related error.
To check and switch to a Microsoft account:
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info.
- If you see an option to “Sign in with a Microsoft account instead,” click it and follow the prompts.
2. Ensure Windows Is Activated
If your copy of Windows 10 is not activated, some features, including sync, may be disabled.
To check activation status:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
- Make sure your system says: Windows is activated.
If it isn’t activated, you’ll need to resolve the activation issue before proceeding.
3. Modify Registry Settings (If Applicable)
This step is intended for advanced users. Be cautious while modifying the Windows Registry.
Sometimes, group policy settings (even on personal devices) can disable sync. Here’s how to check:
- Press Win + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System. - Look for a DWORD entry called
NoConnectedUser. If it exists and is set to1, right-click and set it to0.
Then, reboot your PC and try syncing again.
4. Check Group Policy Settings
Similar to the registry, group policies can prevent sync from functioning, especially on work or school devices.
To check this setting:
- Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter. - Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Sync your settings.
- Double-click Do not sync and ensure it is set to Not Configured or Disabled.
5. Check Work or School Restrictions
If you’re using a device managed by an organization, such as a workplace or school, sync might be disabled by administrative policies.
In such cases:
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Access work or school.
- Select any connected accounts and click Disconnect if you’re no longer affiliated with the organization.
You may also need to remove device management through Settings > Accounts > Work or school account.
6. Switch to a Different Microsoft Account
Sometimes, the issue is isolated to a specific Microsoft account. Try using a different one to see if that resolves the problem.
- Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Email & accounts.
- Add a new Microsoft account and switch to it from Your info.
- Test if syncing works with the new account.
7. Update Windows
Microsoft frequently patches bugs and security issues in Windows 10. Ensuring your system is fully updated could automatically solve the syncing problem.
How to update:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
Final Thoughts
While the “Sync is not available for your account” error can seem puzzling at first, following the practical steps listed above will help you identify and fix the root cause. Whether it’s a simple account change or a more technical registry tweak, each solution helps get your settings back in sync across devices. Remember to back up important settings and files before making any major changes, especially when editing the registry.
Need further help? You can always visit the Microsoft Support website for additional resources.