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Fix Gmail Account Stuck in Outlook Web Authentication Loop
Question details
The user is unable to add a Gmail account to Outlook on the web due to an infinite authentication loop returning to the account-selection screen.
- Product
- Outlook on the web
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to link or add a Gmail account to Outlook via a web browser.
- Observed behavior
- After approving Google permissions, the page repeatedly returns to the account-selection screen instead of completing the login process.
Ensure you have your correct Gmail login credentials ready and verify that your internet connection is stable before attempting the browser troubleshooting steps.
Clear Browser Data and Use Private Browsing
Resolve corrupted cookie or cache issues causing the authentication loop by clearing browser data or using an incognito window.
Outdated cache files or strict browser extensions can prevent the authentication token from being passed between Google and Microsoft correctly, causing the page to loop.
Launch a Private or Incognito window in your web browser (for example, press Ctrl+Shift+N in Chrome or Edge) to bypass existing cookies.
Navigate to Outlook on the web, sign in to your Microsoft account, and try adding your Gmail account again.
If the private window works, return to your normal browser window, open the browser's Settings menu, navigate to 'Privacy and security', and clear your cookies and cached data.
Temporarily disable any ad-blockers, pop-up blockers, or privacy extensions from your browser's extension manager, as they might be interfering with the redirect.
Remove Microsoft Connected-App Access from Google
Force a fresh authentication process by revoking existing Microsoft permissions in your Google account security settings.
Test Alternative Networks and Check Service Status
Rule out network restrictions or temporary server outages on Microsoft or Google's end.
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- 1. Download the Software: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Outlook web keep asking for my Gmail password repeatedly?
This infinite authentication loop usually happens due to corrupted browser cookies, overly strict privacy extensions blocking the login token, or a synchronization glitch between Google and Microsoft servers.
Will removing Microsoft access from my Google account delete my emails?
No, revoking Microsoft's third-party access only removes its permission to sync new data. Your existing emails remain safe on Google's servers, and access will be re-established once you successfully sign in again.
Does this authentication loop happen on the Outlook desktop app as well?
While it can happen on the desktop application, this specific loop is most commonly associated with web browsers. If you experience it on desktop, clearing the Windows credential manager or signing in via the default system browser often helps.
