Sign-in & Login Problems

Fix Microsoft 365 Mac Sign-In "Too Many Requests" Error

Steve K Sep 25, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to sign into Microsoft 365 on a new MacBook, encountering a "Too Many Requests" error message after attempting multiple logins and password changes.

How to Fix Microsoft 365 "Too Many Requests" Sign-In Error on Mac

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Attempting to sign in to a Microsoft account to activate the software or access web services after multiple login and password reset attempts.
Observed behavior: The sign-in process fails completely, and the system displays a "Too Many Requests" error, blocking further access to the account.

Before you start

Ensure you have your correct Microsoft account credentials ready, and verify that Microsoft's official server status page does not show any ongoing authentication outages.

Solution 1Recommended

Wait and Switch Your Network Connection

Since this error is caused by a temporary security block due to too many attempts, pausing your login actions and changing your IP address is the most effective fix.

Microsoft temporarily flags and blocks IP addresses that send too many authentication requests in a short period to protect your account. Changing your network can provide a fresh IP address.

Wait for the temporary block to expire

Stop all login and password reset attempts immediately. Wait for at least 15 to 60 minutes to allow the server's security rate-limiting timer to reset.

Switch to a different network

Disconnect your Mac from your current Wi-Fi network and connect to a mobile hotspot or an entirely different Wi-Fi connection to obtain a new IP address.

Attempt to sign in again

Once connected to the new network, carefully enter your correct Microsoft 365 credentials on your first attempt to avoid triggering another security block.

Avoid Password Changes: Do not attempt to change your password again during this period, as it counts as a request and will reset the block timer.

Solution 2

Clear Browser Cache or Use an Alternative Browser

Corrupted temporary files or stuck cookies can cause a login loop, resulting in excessive automated requests that trigger the error.

Solution 3

Use Desktop Applications and Remove Trial Versions

Pre-installed trials or web-based login portals can sometimes interfere with your authentication process on a new Mac.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Mac – A Lightweight and Free Alternative

If Microsoft 365 sign-in issues are slowing you down, switch to WPS Office. It provides a robust, fully compatible office suite for your Mac without complex subscription sign-ins or rate-limit lockouts.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the Mac version of the software.
2. Install the application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
3. Open your documents: Double-click any Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint file to open and edit it directly in WPS Office.

Highly compatible with Microsoft Office formats like .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Free to use with a familiar, easy-to-navigate interface.Does not require a persistent online login or subscription for basic document editing.Lightweight application that runs smoothly on all Mac devices.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Microsoft 365 say 'Too Many Requests'?

This error occurs when Microsoft's security systems detect unusually high sign-in attempts, password reset requests, or page refreshes from your IP address within a short period. The system temporarily blocks further requests to protect your account from unauthorized access.

How long does the 'Too Many Requests' block last?

Typically, the temporary block lifts after 15 minutes to an hour. It is highly recommended to stop all login attempts during this period; continuing to try will often reset the timer and extend the block.

Does changing my password fix the 'Too Many Requests' error?

No, repeatedly changing your password can actually trigger or worsen the error by registering as suspicious, high-frequency activity. You should wait for the block to expire before attempting to sign in with your correct password.

Can I use Microsoft Office on Mac without signing in?

To activate and use Microsoft 365 apps on a Mac, you must sign in at least once to verify your subscription. If you need immediate access to documents without dealing with sign-in blocks, consider using a free alternative like WPS Office.

Login & Account Issues