This user wasn't added to this PC. Code: 0xd0000225

So, found the root cause of my particular problem. For some reason, the Security Packages that Microsoft Accounts use were not registered on my brand new (okay, refurbished) Lenovo laptop.  For the record, that's really, really unexpected, and I bet a re-install from shiny media, or a reset on a machine whose reference image is good, would fix this.  Oh, well, that's not an option for everyone.

 

Still, I've experienced this on two separate Lenovo laptops within a month, so there's probably something in common there.  Maybe the Windows image Lenovo customized got corrupted, maybe it's the AV trial s/w that comes with it is removing the regkeys, who knows?

 

Anyway, I just added "pku2u" and "livessp" to the Security Packages REG_MULTI_SZ key under regkey HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Lsa. 

 

Immediately, I was able to add Microsoft Accounts. :)

(If you already have pku2u and livessp in the list of Security Packages, of course, then this isn't your problem, and just move on. ;)

 

CAUTION: Don't remove *anything* from the existing list in this key, and type very, very carefully.  If you really blow it when you edit this key, you can probably brick your PC, since the Local Security Authority (LSA) is core to the system.  There's a reason Microsoft tells you not to monkey with the registry.  You've been warned. ;)

 

Would be great if Microsoft could provide a Fix-It script that could safely fix this and eliminate the human factor of typing in regedit...

 

In the meantime, if you are comfortable with regedit, this might be something to check if you hit this problem. 

Thank you so much!  It didn't work right away, but I did a system restart and it did it without a problem!  I'm just going to blame McAfee on this one.  :P

Same problem with Lenovo Refurbished computer. Initially setup with local account -then after 3 months use realized was not getting updates. So, tried to access Microsoft account with this Ultrabook Windows 8 unit and can not with the same error message at final step. Attempted to create new Microsoft account on different email address - same issue.

Suggestions?

Can anyone tell me where to find the "Security Packages REG_MULTI_SZ key under regkey HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Lsa. "

 

I've googled and poked around a bit for editing this stuff, but the best I've been able to is open up a registry folder and it doesn't look like the right place.

 

I realize it's probably something simple, but any help would be greatly appreciated.

Under "Edit" in the Registry editor use "Find". Type in "Security Packages" (make sure Keys, Value and Data boxes are checked). In the right side panel you will see the word "Security Packages" (next to the icon with the red "ab"). Double click on 'Security Packages". In the box that pops up add pku2u and livessp if they are not already there.

You will need to reboot your computer. Then go to Settings>Change PC Settings (near bottom right corner of your screen>Users. Then click on Swith to Microsoft Account.

Thank you!