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How to Remove Restrictions from Computers Managed by a Former Provider
Question details
The user needs to remove device restrictions set by a former managed service provider (MSP) to allow a new provider to manage the company computers.
- Product
- Device Management
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- A business is transitioning to a new IT provider, but their computers are administratively locked by the previous MSP, who is demanding a release fee.
- Observed behavior
- Computers remain restricted by the previous MSP configurations, completely preventing the new provider from changing user accounts, installing software, or managing the devices.
Gather all ownership documentation, hardware purchase receipts, and software licensing records for the restricted computers before attempting to negotiate or bypass administrative locks.
Contact the Former Provider for a Formal Release
The most straightforward and reliable approach is to obtain a formal release or administrative credentials directly from the previous MSP, as Microsoft cannot bypass these locks.
Microsoft policies strictly prohibit their support teams from bypassing security restrictions configured by an authorized managed service provider.
To regain access, you must legally or collaboratively resolve the administrative lock with the entity that originally configured it.
Collect all invoices, hardware serial numbers, and proof of purchase to establish undeniable legal ownership of the affected devices and software licenses.
Carefully review your previous service agreement with the MSP to determine if the requested release fee is legally justified or if a device handover was included in the termination clause.
Contact the former managed service provider to formally request the global admin credentials or demand that they deregister the devices from their mobile device management (MDM) portal.
Seek Guidance in IT Administrator Communities
If standard negotiations fail, specialized IT communities may offer technical workarounds or advice on wiping devices not locked at the firmware level.
Manage Your Business Documents Efficiently with WPS Office
While resolving your IT management and device restriction issues, ensure your team stays productive. WPS Office provides a lightweight, free, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that is easy to deploy even on strictly managed devices.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to quickly set up WPS Office.
- 3. Open and Edit Files: Launch WPS Office to instantly open, edit, and save your existing Microsoft Office files without compatibility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Microsoft support remove the MSP device restrictions for me?
No, Microsoft cannot bypass device restrictions or global administrator locks configured by a Managed Service Provider (MSP). You must resolve this directly with the former provider.
What happens if the former provider refuses to release the devices?
If negotiations fail, you may need to consult legal counsel regarding your service contract. Alternatively, you might have to completely wipe and reinstall the operating systems on the computers, provided they are not locked at the hardware or Autopilot level.
Can our new IT provider force a reset on these restricted computers?
It depends on how the restrictions were implemented. If the devices are registered in an MDM solution like Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopilot, a new provider cannot manage or reset them until they are formally deregistered from the previous MSP's portal.
