If you’ve ever encountered the message “The User Profile Service failed the sign-in. User profile cannot be loaded.” while logging into a Windows computer, you know how frustrating it can be. This error typically appears in Windows 7, 8, and 10 when there’s a problem with the user profile configuration. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to resolve this issue and regain access to your account without losing your data.
What Causes the User Profile Service Sign-In Error?
Understanding the reasons behind this error can help prevent its future recurrence. Common causes include:
- Corrupted user profile files.
- Issues during system updates or improper system shutdowns.
- Permission-related problems in the user directory.
- Conflicting antivirus software activity.
The error is often due to a corrupted or inaccessible profile that Windows fails to load. Let’s explore how to fix it step-by-step.
1. Boot into Safe Mode
The first step before attempting any repair is to boot into Safe Mode. This allows changes to be made without interference from other processes or programs.
To do this:
- Restart your computer.
- As it boots, press F8 (or hold Shift and tap F8 on newer systems) repeatedly before the Windows logo appears.
- From the menu, select Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.
Once in Safe Mode, you can proceed with the troubleshooting steps below.
2. Use the Registry Editor to Fix the User Profile Path
Occasionally, Windows may create a temporary user profile that causes a conflict. To resolve this:
- Press Windows + R and type
regeditto open the Registry Editor. - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList - Look for folders that start with
S-1-5followed by a long number. There may be two similar entries – one with.bakat the end and one without. - Rename the one without
.bakby adding.backup(e.g., change toS-1-5-21...backup). - Rename the one with
.bakby removing.bak. - Click each renamed folder and ensure the
ProfileImagePathvalue points to the correct user account directory (usuallyC:\Users\YourUsername). - Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.
This restores the original profile path that Windows uses to load your settings.
3. Create a New User Account and Transfer Files
If editing the registry doesn’t work, creating a new user profile may be your next best option.
Here’s how to do it:
- Boot into Safe Mode.
- Open the Control Panel.
- Go to User Accounts > Manage another account.
- Click Add a new user in PC settings or Add someone else to this PC.
- Create a new account and assign it administrator rights.
- Log out and log into the new account.
Once in the new profile:
- Navigate to the old user directory (usually under
C:\Users\OldUsername). - Copy important files such as documents, pictures, and downloads into the new profile.
After confirming all your data has been transferred, you can delete the old account.
4. Use System Restore to Roll Back Changes
If the problem began after an update or software installation, using System Restore can revert the system to a previous state.
To restore your system:
- In Safe Mode, type
system restoreinto the Start Menu and press Enter. - Select a restore point before the issue began.
- Follow the prompts to complete the restoration process.
System Restore doesn’t affect your personal files but may remove recently installed programs or drivers that caused the issue.
5. Run the System File Checker (SFC)
Running the System File Checker helps repair any corrupted files that might be causing the login issue.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search for
cmd, then right-click and choose Run as administrator). - Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
The scan will take several minutes to complete. Once done, reboot your computer and try logging in again.
6. Turn Off Antivirus Software Temporarily
Some antivirus software may interfere with the loading of a user profile, especially if the software marks system files as suspicious.
Try disabling your antivirus temporarily in Safe Mode and then reboot into normal mode to check if the issue is resolved. If it is, consider switching to a different security solution or updating your current one.
7. Repair Windows with a Startup Repair Tool
As a final resort, perform a repair install using a Windows installation media (USB or DVD).
Steps:
- Insert the installation media and boot from it.
- Click Repair your computer at the bottom left corner.
- Select Startup Repair.
This repair option attempts to fix various boot and login issues without deleting your files.
Preventing Future Profile Corruption
To reduce the chances of encountering this issue again:
- Always shut down your computer properly.
- Keep Windows and all drivers updated.
- Use reliable antivirus software and keep it updated.
- Perform regular backups of your profile data.
FAQ
- What does “User Profile Service failed the sign-in” mean?
- This message indicates that Windows was unable to load your user profile, typically because it is either corrupted or has wrong settings in the registry.
- Will I lose my files during the repair?
- Most repair methods like registry edits, Safe Mode operations, and System Restore do not affect personal files. However, you should always back up your data when possible.
- How can I back up my files if I can’t log in?
- Boot into Safe Mode or use a bootable USB drive to access the file system and copy your files to an external drive.
- Is creating a new user account a permanent fix?
- Yes, creating a new user profile can fix the issue permanently if the original profile is unrecoverable.
- Can antivirus software cause this issue?
- Yes, certain antivirus programs may inadvertently quarantine system files or interfere with profile loading. Disabling or replacing the antivirus may resolve the problem.
By following the above steps, users experiencing the User Profile Service error can effectively restore system functionality without extensive technical knowledge. With caution and patience, even a seemingly serious login issue can be resolved safely.