File Sharing Problems

How to Fix OneDrive Asking for Sign-In When Uploading to a Shared Folder

Steve K Oct 16, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is continuously prompted to sign in when attempting to upload or drag files into a shared OneDrive folder, despite already being logged into their Microsoft account.

How to Fix OneDrive Asking for Sign-In When Uploading to a Shared Folder

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Uploading or dragging and dropping files into a shared OneDrive folder via a web link.
Observed behavior: The system repeatedly asks for sign-in credentials to authorize the upload, even though the user is actively signed in with the correct email address.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and verify with the sender that the shared link explicitly grants 'Edit' permissions, as 'View-only' links do not permit file uploads.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear Browser Data and Use Incognito Mode

Conflicting cookies and cached credentials from previous web sessions often cause sign-in loops in Microsoft 365.

When accessing OneDrive through a web browser, outdated cache files can confuse the authentication system, making it think you are logged out or using a different account.

Open a Private Window

Launch your web browser and open an InPrivate (Edge), Incognito (Chrome), or Private (Safari/Firefox) window to ensure no existing cookies are active.

Access the Shared Link

Paste the shared OneDrive folder link into the address bar of the private window and press Enter.

Sign In Fresh

When prompted, enter the exact Microsoft 365 email address and password that the link was originally sent to.

Upload the Files

Attempt to drag and drop your files into the folder to see if the upload completes without further prompts.

Clear Browser Data and Use Incognito Mode

Permanent Fix: If the InPrivate window works, go back to your normal browser settings and clear your browser cache and cookies to fix the issue permanently.

Solution 2

Verify Account Configuration and Desktop Sync

Check that your OneDrive desktop application is properly linked to the correct Microsoft account to ensure seamless authentication.

Solution 3

Check for Personal vs. Work/School Account Conflicts

Microsoft separates personal and organizational accounts, which can cause access issues if the browser defaults to the wrong profile.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive keep asking me to sign in even when I am already logged in?

This usually happens because your browser has cached credentials from a different Microsoft account, or your browser is confusing a personal account with a work or school account. Clearing your browser cookies or using an Incognito window usually resolves this.

Can I upload files to a shared OneDrive folder without signing in?

You can only upload files without signing in if the folder owner generated an 'Anyone with the link can edit' sharing link. If the link was sent specifically to your email address, Microsoft requires you to sign in to verify your identity.

How do I know if I have permission to upload files to the shared folder?

If you only have 'View' permissions, the 'Upload' button will be missing or grayed out in the OneDrive web interface. You must ask the folder owner to change your permission level to 'Edit' so you can add files.

Document & File Issues