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18 March 2019  John Weaver  Senior Program Developer
Last update by Olivia Brown at 14 July 2025

Summary
Struggling with the 'user profile cannot be loaded Windows 10 / 11' error? This guide details proven, step-by-step solutions for fixing profile issues, ensuring you regain access to your account and protect your data seamlessly and securely.



Table of contents

table iconWhy Does the “User Profile Cannot Be Loaded” Error Happen?
table iconStep 1: Gain Access to Your System
table iconStep 2: Back Up Your Data
table iconStep 3: Fix the User Profile
table iconIf All Methods Fail
table iconSummary
Updated in 2025: Added support for Windows 11 and introduced a new Data Recovery method to the post.
Stuck with the “User Profile Cannot Be Loaded” error on Windows 10 or 11? Don’t panic! This guide offers the latest step-by-step solutions to regain access to your account or protect your data. We’ll walk you through backing up your files and trying multiple fixes, perfect for beginners and advanced users alike.
Screenshot showing the “User Profile Cannot Be Loaded” error message on a Windows login screen.

Why Does the “User Profile Cannot Be Loaded” Error Happen?

The “User Profile Cannot Be Loaded” error stops you from logging into your Windows 10 or 11 account. This issue often caused by a corrupted user profile, damaged system files, or problems with the User Profile Service. Below is a table summarizing the main causes and general solutions:
CauseDetailsSolution

Corrupted NTUSER.dat File

The NTUSER.dat file (found in C:\Users\ & C:\Users\[User Name]) stores settings like desktop preferences. It can get corrupted due to improper shutdowns, disk errors, or software issues.

Replace valid copy in safe mode, Replace it with a working copy using Data Transfer or use Renee Undelete to recover deleted files.

Misconfigured Registry Entries

The registry key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList may have duplicate or incorrect entries.

Fix entries in Safe Mode using Registry Editor.

User Profile Service Failure

The User Profile Service handles profile loading during login and may fail due to system glitches or updates.

Restart the service in Safe Mode via services.msc.

Corrupted System Files

Damaged system files from failed updates or disk errors can disrupt profile loading.

Run sfc /scannow in Safe Mode.

Malware Infection

Malware can corrupt profile files or registry settings.

Scan with Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus.

Third-Party Software Conflicts

Apps that tweak system settings may interfere with profile loading.

Uninstall recent apps or use System Restore in Safe Mode.

Note: Windows 11 users may notice slight interface differences, but these solutions apply to both versions. Always back up your data before attempting fixes to avoid loss.

Step 1: Gain Access to Your System

If you can’t log in, you’ll need to regain system access first. Here’s how:
  • If you have another admin account: Log in with it.
  • If no accounts are available: Use Renee PassNow to create a new admin account.
Renee PassNow is a versatile Windows recovery tool that simplifies the process of resetting or removing login passwords for local accounts, administrators, and even Microsoft accounts—no password hints or prior information needed. With just a few easy steps, users can regain access without risking data loss. Even if Windows fails to boot, the built-in Data Transfer feature allows seamless migration of files between drives or partitions. Designed for full compatibility with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, Renee PassNow also supports multiple languages and offers extra utilities like disk erasure without trace, file extension modification, file preview, and secure file transfer.
Renee Passnow – Professional Windows Password Remover

Remove Windows Login Password 3 steps for whole password remove process.

Recover the files Recover the deleted files without Windows system.

Transfer the data Transfer the important files of the computer with system.

Multifuctional Data transfer, data recovery, bootable problem recovery can be run without system.

Highly compatible Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista. UEFI boot.

Remove Login Password Support Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista. UEFI boot.

Recover the files Recover the deleted files without Windows system.

Transfer the data Transfer the important files of the computer with system.

Free TrialFree TrialNow 2000 people have downloaded!
Steps to Create a New Account with Renee PassNow:
1. Install Renee PassNow on a working computer. Connect a USB drive, launch Renee PassNow, and select “Create a Live USB” under “Step 1: Choose the creation method”.
Warning: This will erase the USB drive, so back up its contents first.
Create USB with Renee PassNow
2. Select x64 or x86 based on your system, click “Download Now” to get the ISO file, then click “Create USB” and “Eject USB” when done.
3. Insert the USB into the affected computer, power it on, and immediately press the BIOS access key (e.g., F2, Del, or Esc, shown briefly on-screen). In the BIOS Boot Priority menu, set the USB as the first boot device, save changes, and reboot.
Boot the target PC with the created password reset USB/CD/DVD.
Common Servers:
Server TypeEnter boot menu method

DELL

Press the F12 key repeatedly as soon as the computer starts, before the Dell logo appears.

HP

Press the F9 key multiple times when the HP logo is displayed.

Common Computers:
BIOS NameEnter boot menu method

ASRock

DEL or F2

ASUS

DEL or F2 for PCs/ DEL or F2 for Motherboards

Acer

DEL or F2

Dell

F12 or F2

ECS

DEL

Gigabyte / Aorus

DEL or F2

Lenovo (Consumer Laptops)

F2 or Fn + F2

Lenovo (Desktops)

F1

Lenovo (ThinkPads)

Enter then F1

MSI

DEL

Microsoft Surface Tablets

Press and hold Power and Volume Up buttons

Origin PC

F2

Samsung

F2

Toshiba

F2

Zotac

DEL

HP

Esc/ F9 for Boot Menu/ Esc/ F10/ Storage tab/ Boot Order/ Legacy Boot Sources

INTEL

F10

Select boot order
4. Once Renee PassNow loads, select the “Passnow” feature.
click on passnow to reset login password
5. Choose your Windows system and click “Create new account”
Renee PassNow create account
6. Restart and log in with the new account. The new account will be “Renee” and password will be “123456789”.
successfully create new account
Note: The new account has admin privileges, allowing you to access the system and proceed with fixes.

Step 2: Back Up Your Data

Before fixing the profile, back up your important files to avoid data loss. Since you may not be able to log into your original account, use Renee PassNow’s “Data Transfer” feature to move files to an external drive. If files are missing, use the Undeleter feature to recover them.

Back Up Data with Renee PassNow’s Data Transfer

1. Follow the steps in Step 1 to create a bootable Renee PassNow USB or CD.
Renee Passnow – Professional Windows Password Remover

Remove Windows Login Password 3 steps for whole password remove process.

Recover the files Recover the deleted files without Windows system.

Transfer the data Transfer the important files of the computer with system.

Multifuctional Data transfer, data recovery, bootable problem recovery can be run without system.

Highly compatible Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista. UEFI boot.

Remove Login Password Support Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista. UEFI boot.

Recover the files Recover the deleted files without Windows system.

Transfer the data Transfer the important files of the computer with system.

Free TrialFree TrialNow 2000 people have downloaded!
2. Once Renee PassNow loads, select “Data Transfer”. For a full disk backup, choose “Data backup” instead.
Data Transfer feature
3. Check each drive (C:, D:, E:, etc.) to locate your files (e.g., in C:\Users\). Select the source drive (e.g., C:) on the left, the destination drive (e.g., an external drive G:) on the right, choose files, and click “Copy” to transfer. Caution: Avoid using the “Delete” button, as deletion is irreversible.
Transfer data interface

Recover Missing Files with Renee PassNow’s Undeleter

If certain files are missing and can’t be found in Data Transfer, they may have been deleted during a system update or due to other factors. In that case, you can use Renee Undeleter to help recover the lost data.
1. In Renee PassNow, select “Undeleter” from the main interface and click “Run”.
Undeleter feature
2. Choose a scan mode (e.g., “Fast Partition Scan” for speed or “Whole Partition Scan” for thoroughness).
Scan partition
3. Select the target disk, scan, then preview and select files to recover. Click “Recover” and save files to an external drive.
Preview before recovery
Why It Matters: Fixing the profile involves editing system files or the registry, which risks data loss. Using Data Transfer ensures your files are safely moved to an external drive before repairs.
Note: If you need to retrieve old account access, please read the follwing methods.

Step 3: Fix the User Profile

Now that you’ve gained system access and backed up your data, you’re ready to fix the “User Profile Cannot Be Loaded” error. The following methods address common causes like corrupted registry entries, damaged user profile files, or broken system files. We’ll guide you through three approaches: repairing the registry in Safe Mode, replacing the NTUSER.dat file, and running System File Checker (SFC). Follow these methods in order, testing your account after each one.

Method 1: Repair the Profile in Registry in Safe Mode

How It Works:

This method fixes the error by correcting misconfigured registry entries that prevent Windows from loading your user profile. The registry key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList stores profile data, and issues like duplicate entries or a .bak suffix can cause the error. Safe Mode loads minimal drivers, allowing you to edit the registry without interference from third-party software.

Requirements:

Access to Safe Mode (via the Windows Recovery Environment) and a working admin account or the Renee PassNow-created account from Step 1.
Renee Passnow – Professional Windows Password Remover

Remove Windows Login Password 3 steps for whole password remove process.

Recover the files Recover the deleted files without Windows system.

Transfer the data Transfer the important files of the computer with system.

Multifuctional Data transfer, data recovery, bootable problem recovery can be run without system.

Highly compatible Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista. UEFI boot.

Remove Login Password Support Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista. UEFI boot.

Recover the files Recover the deleted files without Windows system.

Transfer the data Transfer the important files of the computer with system.

Free TrialFree TrialNow 2000 people have downloaded!
You’ll also need basic familiarity with navigating the Registry Editor.

Steps:

1. At the login screen, hold Shift and click “Restart” in the bottom-right corner to enter the Windows Recovery Environment.
Windows, shift + restart
2. Go to “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Startup Settings” > “Restart.”
select startup settings in advanced options
3. After reboot, press 4 to enter Safe Mode.
press 4 to enable safe mode
4. In Safe Mode, press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter to open Registry Editor.
run regedit exe and open registry editor
5. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList.
6. Check folders starting with S-1-5 to find the one tied to your account (look at the ProfileImagePath entry). If the folder does not exists, it may indicate that your user profile has been deleted or corrupted. In that case, try logging into Windows with another account (if available) to verify its presence, or consider creating a new profile and manually migrating necessary files from the old profile folders (if any remain).
Registry Editor ProfileList
If there are two S-1-5 folders, one ending in.bak:
  • Rename the non-.bak folder to.ba.
  • Rename the.bak folder to remove.bak.
  • Rename the.ba folder to.bak.
If there’s only one S-1-5 folder ending in.bak, remove the.bak suffix.
7. Select the non-.bak folder, double-click RefCount and set its value to 0.
refcount
8. Double-click State and set its value to 0.
registry editor state
9. Close Registry Editor, restart your PC, and check if you can log in.
Note: For Windows 11, select ‘Safe Mode with Networking’ only if you need to download additional tools or updates during the repair process.
This method corrects registry issues that block profile loading, making it effective for errors caused by duplicate or corrupted registry entries. It requires careful navigation to avoid registry errors. If successful, you’ll regain access to your account; if not, try Method 2.

Method 2: Replace the NTUSER.dat File

How It Works:

The NTUSER.dat file in C:\Users\Default or your user profile folder stores user-specific settings. If it’s corrupted, Windows can’t load your profile, causing the error. Replacing it with a working copy from another profile or the default template restores functionality. Safe Mode ensures safe file access without active system processes interfering.

Requirements:

Access to Safe Mode and an admin account (from Step 1). You need a working NTUSER.dat file from another user profile (e.g., C:\Users\Administrator) or the default folder. An external drive for backups is recommended.

Steps:

1. Boot into Safe Mode (as in Method 1).
2. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Users\ [ Your accout user name ] .
3. Rename NTUSER.DAT to NTUSER.DAT.OLD (as a backup).
NTUSER.DAT file in Users folder
4. Copy a working NTUSER.DAT from another user profile (e.g., C:\Users\Administrator) to C:\Users\ [ Your accout user name ] .
5. Restart your PC.
Note: Ensure the copied NTUSER.DAT comes from a working profile to avoid further issues.
Replacing the NTUSER.dat file is effective for errors caused by a corrupted user profile file. It’s a straightforward fix but requires a valid NTUSER.dat copy. If this doesn’t work, proceed to Method 3.

Method 3: Run System File Checker (SFC)

How It Works:

Corrupted system files can prevent Windows from loading user profiles. The System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs damaged system files by replacing them with cached copies. Running it in Safe Mode minimizes interference from running processes, ensuring a thorough scan.

Requirements:

Access to Safe Mode and an admin account. You’ll need to use Command Prompt with administrator privileges. An internet connection may help for additional file repairs in Windows 11.

Steps

1. Boot into Safe Mode (as in Method 1).
2. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click, and select “Run as administrator”).
Windows 11, run cmd as administrator
Ensure you have administrator privileges before running Command Prompt, as SFC requires elevated permissions to function correctly.
3. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

sfc /scannow

4. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any prompts.
enter sfc scannow
5. Restart your PC.
Note: This method fixes damaged system files, ensuring system stability.
SFC is a reliable fix for errors caused by corrupted system files. It’s easy to run and doesn’t require advanced technical skills. If this method fails, consider using the new account created in Step 1.

If All Methods Fail

If none of the above fixes work, you can continue using the new account created with Renee PassNow. Ensure all critical data from your old profile is backed up. For further recovery, consider a Windows in-place upgrade using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool, but only as a last resort after trying all other methods.
Renee Passnow – Professional Windows Password Remover

Remove Windows Login Password 3 steps for whole password remove process.

Recover the files Recover the deleted files without Windows system.

Transfer the data Transfer the important files of the computer with system.

Multifuctional Data transfer, data recovery, bootable problem recovery can be run without system.

Highly compatible Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista. UEFI boot.

Remove Login Password Support Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista. UEFI boot.

Recover the files Recover the deleted files without Windows system.

Transfer the data Transfer the important files of the computer with system.

Free TrialFree TrialNow 2000 people have downloaded!

Summary

The “User Profile Cannot Be Loaded” error can be frustrating, but with the right steps, you can regain access to your account or safeguard your data. Start by gaining system access with Renee PassNow, back up your files using Data Transfer or Undeleter, then try fixing the profile in Safe Mode, replacing NTUSER.dat, or running SFC. If the issue persists, use the new account. These methods are effective for Windows 10 and 11.

User Comments

MU
Mulham
2025-07-17
Hey folks, I just did a full reset on my Windows 10 PC, and now I’m stuck with this error: "The User Profile Service failed the sign-in. User profile cannot be loaded." I’ve restarted multiple times, tried different accounts, but they’re all gone except one. Even tried accessing an admin account via Command Prompt, but no luck logging in. Any tips? I’m worried about my files, but I heard Renee PassNow can help recover data or create a new admin account to get back in. Anyone tried it?
UN
Unknown
2025-07-20
Yo Mulham, I’m getting the same error when I boot up my PC. It’s super confusing! Did you figure out a fix yet? I’m thinking of trying Renee PassNow like you mentioned to at least back up my files before messing with anything else.
MU
Mulham
2025-07-20
Hey everyone!
Thanks for the support, Unknown! I managed to sort it out. Found a solid guide online when I searched "user profile service failed." Here’s what I did:
I held Shift and clicked Restart from the login screen, then went to "Troubleshoot" in the menu. Instead of wiping everything like I did before, I chose "Reset this PC" and picked "Keep my files." Then selected "Local reinstall" over "Cloud download." Took a bit, but my PC came back fresh, files intact, though apps and settings were gone, which I wanted anyway.
Before I did this, I used Renee PassNow’s Data Transfer to back up my important files to an external drive, just in case. Worked like a charm! Kinda embarrassed it was that easy after all the stress, haha. Hope this helps someone!
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ0fefP2ffU]
WL
Wesley Li
2025-07-20
Hi Mulham,
Sorry you’re dealing with that "User Profile Service failed the sign-in" error after resetting your Windows 10. Here’s a few things to try:
Restart in Safe Mode:
- Reboot and keep pressing F8 before the Windows logo.
- Choose "Safe Mode" from the Advanced Boot Options.
- Try logging into your account. It loads minimal drivers, so it might bypass the error.
Check Registry Entries:
- In Safe Mode, press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
- Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionProfileList.
- Check each subkey’s ProfileImagePath to ensure it points to a valid user folder. Delete any that don’t.
- Reboot and try logging in.
Use System Restore:
- If you have a restore point from before the issue, boot into Advanced Startup Options (might need a Windows USB).
- Go to "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced Options" > "System Restore" and follow the prompts.
Repair Install:
- If nothing works, a repair install might help. It reinstalls Windows 10 but keeps files and apps.
- Use a Windows 10 USB, boot from it, click "Install Now," and choose "Keep personal files and apps" at the "Ready to install" screen.
If you can’t log in at all, try Renee PassNow to create a new admin account. It’s super handy for getting access and backing up files with its Data Transfer feature. Good luck!
DO
dothackjhe
2025-07-22
Man, I was stuck in a loop with this User Profile Service error forever! Finally fixed it by following a video guide: [https://youtu.be/hJ0fefP2ffU]
You’ll need your Microsoft account password for it to work. If you don’t know it, resetting it’s a pain. I also used Renee PassNow to back up my files before trying anything risky, and it saved my bacon. Highly recommend it for data recovery or creating a new account if you’re locked out.
WO
Wonderful_Newt1255
2025-07-25
Ugh, getting "The User Profile Service failed to sign in. User profile cannot be loaded" on my Windows 10 PC.
Every time I try logging in, this pops up. Any ideas?
[https://gyazo.com/b0621f4908f79db22afcba142da43b17]
Check the screenshot above ^^
TO
Tobyboy2007
2025-08-02
Not sure if this’ll fix it for ya, but if you can get into any account, try this: go to the login screen, hold Shift, hit the power button, and click Restart. Keep holding Shift until the PC reboots. When the blue screen pops up, click “Continue to Windows 10.” No idea why, but this worked for me, and my account’s back to normal. Hope it helps!
AD
adambrown1105
2025-08-02
Still works in mid-2025 for Windows 11 🐐
RY
Ry--9
2025-08-12
Same here in late summer 2025 👍 Had to restart once more without Shift, tho.
ZO
Zombrz
2025-08-12
Still solid in early 2025!
BO
Born_Slippee
2025-08-12
Yo, you get this error too? I’m hitting the same wall, and it won’t let me into Windows 10. Any other tricks?
AD
adambrown1105
2025-08-15
Yeah, I got hit with it too. Followed the Shift + Restart trick from comment #7, and it worked for me on Windows 11. Might be different for Windows 10, tho. If that fails, try booting into Safe Mode or using Renee PassNow to create a new admin account and back up your stuff.
LL
Llamanator301
2025-08-15
Still good in late fall 2025! 👍🏼
EA
EatinAssNCuttinGrass
2025-08-18
Yo, this just saved my PC too 🙏
PR
ProverbialLemon
2025-08-18
Worked for me too! Windows 11 started updating after I used the Shift + Restart trick from the login screen. Got a weird temp account at first, but after another reboot, my normal account was back. So simple, yet it works!
BL
blackmorth
2025-08-18
Same issue here, and your fix worked perfectly. Went to the login screen, held Shift, hit the power button, and restarted. Clicked “Continue to Windows” on the blue screen, logged in, and got a blank account. Restarted again, and boom, everything’s back. So strange but it works!
SE
Sea-Refrigerator2982
2025-08-21
Same deal in late 2025..
ZE
zebanafff
2025-08-26
Can confirm it’s still working in summer 2025!
8-
8-Ronin-8
2025-08-26
Thanks a ton, ProverbialLemon! Got this error twice this week, even after trying to fix it. Super annoying to set up again, but your Shift + Restart tip saved me. 😄
SN
snubbbsy
2025-08-28
Still works in early 2025 on Windows 11!
Held Shift, hit Restart, went to Windows 10 mode (took a couple tries). Logged into a blank account, freaked out a bit, restarted, shut down, waited 30 sec, powered up, and it’s fixed. My heart was racing, lol!
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