Created a fake work account for a free trial, now getting error

Question

Hello,

I was between jobs, and tried to load a free trial tutorial from a site that required a work login. I used a domain from a defunct employer, Raycom Media. I suppose I didn't shut it down correctly, because I am getting an "Account Disconnected" prompt in Files Explorer, and when I try to log in with my personal gmail address, I get the error below.

I have a subscription to Office 365 (or whatever the current name), and my apps work, but I would like to get this conflict cleaned up.

Thanks for any help. Apologies if the tags are not correct.

Device name GWTC71427

Processor 12th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-1255U 2.60 GHz

Installed RAM 8.00 GB (7.75 GB usable)

Device ID D342A944-6E9E-4C1A-80C8-16A845E5AC50

Product ID 00342-21990-41310-AAOEM

System type 64-bit operating system, x64-based processor

Pen and touch Pen and touch support with 10 touch points

Edition Windows 11 Home

Version 24H2

Installed on ‎1/‎6/‎2025

OS build 26100.4349

Experience Windows Feature Experience Pack 1000.26100.107.0

Answer 1

Hello @Steve Dees

You’re experiencing a persistent “Account Disconnected” message in File Explorer, likely due to a leftover work account from your previous employer (Raycom Media), and you want to ensure your personal Microsoft 365 subscription and accounts work smoothly.

You are using a personal Microsoft account, but the application only allows organizational (work or school) accounts.

Remove the Old Work or School Account

Open Settings (press Windows + I).

Go to Accounts in the sidebar.

Click on Email & accounts (or sometimes Access work or school).

Find the old work account (it may show the Raycom Media domain or your old work email).

Click on it, then select Remove or Disconnect.

1. Confirm the removal when prompted.

This will disconnect your PC from the defunct work account and remove its access to any linked resources.

Ensure Your Personal Microsoft 365 Account Is Working

1.Open any Office app (Word, Excel, etc.).

2.Go to File > Account.
3.Make sure your personal Microsoft account (usually your Gmail address) is listed and signed in. If needed, click Sign in and enter your personal credentials.

Your Office 365 (now called Microsoft 365) subscription should work as long as your personal account is signed in and licensed.

Restart your PC after making these changes to ensure all settings refresh properly. If you still see issues, double-check for any remaining work or school accounts under Settings > Accounts.

Hope this helps.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

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