Fixing “The trust relationship between this workstation and the primary domain failed” error

Fixing “The trust relationship between this workstation and the primary domain failed” error.

Step 1

If you know the local admin password – great! just click Switch User and log in as .\administrator and your password “.\” replaces the computer name in case you don’t know it.

If you do not know the local admin password but previously logged in with your domain credentials, you are still good. Unplug the network cable, disable wireless, then reboot the system (not necessary). After the reboot log in with your domain credentials and you should be able to get back in.

Step 2

Open PowerShell as administrator. Run this command sequence:

$credential = Get-Credential – (enter domain admin account when prompted)

Reset-ComputerMachinePassword

Another option:

Reset-ComputerMachinePassword -Server ClosestDomainControllerNameHere

If not help – then use KB2771040:

1. Use a local administrator account to log on to the computer.
2. Select Start, press, and hold (or right-click) Computer > Properties.
3. Select Change settings next to the computer name.
4. On the Computer Name tab, select Change.
5. Under the Member of heading, select Workgroup, type a workgroup name and then select OK.
6. When you are prompted to restart the computer, select OK.
7. On the Computer Name tab, select Change again.
8. Under the Member of heading, select Domain, and then type the domain name.
9. Select OK, and then type the credentials of the user who has permission in the domain.
10. When you are prompted to restart the computer, select OK.
11. Restart the computer.