A Windows 10 work or school account connected through Azure AD, now Microsoft Entra ID, can control sign-in, applications, management, encryption, and access to organization data. Disconnect it only when you are authorized to remove that relationship.
Steps
- Back up permitted work files according to organization policy.
- Make sure the PC has another authorized administrator and usable sign-in method before disconnecting anything.
- Confirm that required BitLocker or device-encryption recovery information is available.
- Open Settings > Accounts > Access work or school.
- Select the organization connection and choose Disconnect only when that option is appropriate and approved.
- Follow the prompts and restart if required.
- Verify local sign-in, encryption recovery, applications, and data access afterward.
Do not strand the PC without a login
On an Entra-joined device, organizational identity can be tied to Windows sign-in itself. Removing it is more significant than deleting an email account.
Managed devices may need retirement first
Intune or another management system can require an administrator-approved retire, wipe, or unenrollment workflow. Follow the organization’s process rather than forcing a local disconnect.
Work data can have retention requirements
Before removing access, confirm what files must be transferred, retained, or deleted under company policy. Personal copying of organization data may be prohibited.
Windows 10 is unsupported
Windows 10 reached the end of standard support in October 2025. Organizations should move managed endpoints to a supported operating system rather than maintaining legacy identity configurations indefinitely.
Joining a Windows 11 PC instead? See how to join Windows 11 to Microsoft Entra ID.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.