Activation Problems

Fix Microsoft 365 'No Network Connection' Error on Mac

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users encounter a 'No Network Connection' error when trying to activate or sign in to Microsoft 365 on a Mac, even though the device is actively connected to the internet.

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: Mac
Scenario: Activating or signing into Microsoft 365 applications like Word or Excel.
Observed behavior: The application fails to authenticate and displays a 'No Network Connection' error, often caused by corrupted account tokens, incorrect system time, or security software interference.

Before you start

Verify that your Mac's internet connection is stable by loading a webpage, and ensure you have your Microsoft account credentials ready before clearing any authentication data.

Solution 1Recommended

Remove Microsoft Authentication Tokens from Keychain Access

Clearing corrupted authentication data from your Mac's Keychain often resolves persistent sign-in errors.

Your Mac stores Microsoft 365 login sessions in its Keychain. If these tokens become corrupted or outdated, Office apps may falsely report a network error because they cannot communicate with the authentication server.

Quit Office Applications

Ensure all Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) are completely closed.

Open Keychain Access

Go to your Applications folder, open the Utilities folder, and launch the 'Keychain Access' app.

Search for Microsoft Tokens

In the top-right search bar of Keychain Access, type 'Microsoft' to filter the entries.

Delete Authentication Data

Select and delete any entries related to 'Microsoft Office Identities Settings', 'Microsoft Office Identities Cache', or similar authentication tokens.

Restart and Sign In

Restart your Mac, open Microsoft Word, and attempt to sign in to Microsoft 365 again.

Solution 2

Verify System Time and Disable Security Software

Incorrect date/time settings or strict security software can block communication with Microsoft's servers.

Solution 3

Sign In Through Another Office Application

Sometimes the authentication glitch is isolated to a single application, and logging in elsewhere forces a global sync.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Mac - No Subscription Required

If you are tired of dealing with Microsoft 365 activation issues, network connection errors, and constant sign-in prompts on your Mac, switch to WPS Office. It is a powerful, free alternative that offers seamless compatibility with Microsoft formats without the hassle of subscription servers.

1. Download for Mac: Visit the official WPS website and download the Mac version of WPS Office.
2. Install and Launch: Follow the simple installation prompt and launch the all-in-one application suite.
3. Open Your Files: Directly open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files and start editing immediately—no complicated network activation required.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx).No complex activation servers or subscription network errors to troubleshoot.Lightweight design that runs smoothly and efficiently on macOS.Familiar, intuitive user interface makes switching incredibly easy.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Microsoft 365 say no network connection when I have internet access?

This error typically occurs because corrupted Keychain tokens, strict security software, or an incorrect system clock block the Office application from securely communicating with Microsoft's authentication servers.

Will deleting Microsoft tokens from Keychain Access delete my files?

No. Deleting these tokens only removes your saved login sessions. Your local documents, cloud files, and app settings remain perfectly safe; you will just need to enter your password again.

Can a VPN cause Microsoft 365 sign-in errors on Mac?

Yes, VPNs can route your traffic through servers that Microsoft flags or blocks for security reasons, preventing the authentication process. Temporarily disabling the VPN often resolves the sign-in issue.

Installation & Activation