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STATUS_SYNCHRONIZATION_REQUIRED
This is a database-replica state problem, not a user password retry condition
STATUS_SYNCHRONIZATION_REQUIRED refers to the Security Account Manager database and a domain-controller copy that have diverged enough that ordinary synchronization is not sufficient. The terminology reflects the PDC/BDC replication model documented by the Netlogon protocol: a backup domain controller holds a copy of the domain database and synchronizes it from the primary domain controller.
The useful evidence is the replica relationship and synchronization history. Identify which machine returned the status, which domain database it believes is authoritative, and the last successful full or incremental synchronization. A single user password reset is not a repair for database-wide divergence, and deleting an arbitrary machine account can make recovery harder.
Because this status is rooted in legacy SAM/domain replication semantics, do not automatically translate it into a modern AD DS replication error without confirming the component that emitted it. Preserve Netlogon and directory-service logs, machine roles, and product versions. If a legacy controller or compatibility component is present, follow the synchronization procedure for that topology rather than applying generic DNS fixes.
What to inspect
- The server role of each participant: PDC/PDC emulator, BDC, member server, or modern AD DS domain controller.
- The last successful synchronization, replication epoch or recovery action, and the first error preceding the complete-sync requirement.
- Whether the status comes from a legacy compatibility path, appliance, Samba integration, or Windows component that still uses SAM/Netlogon terminology.
References
- Microsoft Open Specifications: Netlogon Remote Protocol glossary
- Microsoft: Active Directory FSMO roles
- Microsoft Open Specifications: NTSTATUS values
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