ERROR_PASSWORD_MUST_CHANGE - 1907 (0x773)

Technical Meaning

The error code ERROR_PASSWORD_MUST_CHANGE (1907, 0x773) is returned by the Windows operating system when a user attempts to sign in with an account that requires a password change. This typically occurs due to password policies enforced by the domain or local security settings.

Error Details

This error code is used to indicate that the current password of the user account has expired, and the user must update it before gaining access to the system. The specific policy triggering this error can vary depending on the organization's Active Directory configuration or local security policies.

Usage Context

• Domain Environments: In a domain environment managed by Active Directory, this error is commonly encountered when a user account has an expired password due to a group policy setting that enforces regular password changes. The user will be prompted to change their password upon next sign-in or during the current session.
• Local Accounts: For local accounts on a standalone Windows machine, this error can occur if the system's security policies require users to change their passwords at certain intervals.

Developer Interpretation

Meaning as Return Code

The return code 1907 is used by various Windows APIs and services to indicate that the user must update their password before proceeding with authentication. This error should be handled gracefully, allowing the application or service to prompt the user for a new password.

Context Dependency

The context in which this error occurs can vary widely depending on the security policies configured within the domain or local machine. Developers should ensure that their applications are designed to handle this scenario by providing appropriate user feedback and guidance.

Related Errors

• ERROR_PASSWORD_EXPIRED (1768, 0x6F8): This error is similar but indicates that the password has expired and must be changed immediately upon sign-in.
• ERROR_ACCOUNT_DISABLED (15123, 0x3D7): If a user's account is disabled due to policy violations or other reasons, this error might be encountered in conjunction with ERROR_PASSWORD_MUST_CHANGE.

FAQ

Q: What does the error code 1907 mean?

A: The error code 1907 indicates that the user must change their password before signing in due to a policy enforced by Active Directory or local security settings.

Q: How can I handle this error in my application?

A: You should design your application to gracefully handle ERROR_PASSWORD_MUST_CHANGE by prompting the user to update their password and then retrying the authentication process.

Summary

The Windows error code 1907, 'Password Must Change', is a generic return code used to indicate that a user's account requires a password change before gaining access. This error is commonly encountered in domain environments managed by Active Directory or on local machines with enforced security policies. Developers should ensure their applications handle this scenario appropriately to provide a seamless user experience.