Sign-in & Login Problems

Fix Microsoft Office Sign-In Works on Web but Not in Apps

Maira Mehtab Sep 21, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is able to sign in to the Microsoft website successfully, but Microsoft Office desktop applications continuously prompt for credentials.

Product: Microsoft 365 / Office Desktop Apps
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Attempting to use Microsoft Office desktop applications after successfully verifying the account on the Microsoft website.
Observed behavior: Word, Excel, and PowerPoint repeatedly request user credentials and fail to recognize the valid login session, creating a sign-in loop.

Before you start

Ensure your internet connection is stable and verify that you have your correct Microsoft account email and password ready before modifying any cached data or registry keys.

Solution 1Recommended

Run an Office Quick Repair

Use the built-in Windows Apps and Features tool to quickly repair corrupt Microsoft 365 application files that may be causing the login loop.

Restart your computer

Reboot your PC to ensure no Office background processes or stuck instances are running.

Open Apps and Features

Click the Windows Start menu, type 'Apps and Features', and open the system settings panel.

Run the repair tool

Locate Microsoft 365 or Office in the list, click 'Modify', and select 'Quick Repair' from the prompt.

Test the application

Once the repair finishes, search for Word, launch it from its shortcut, and confirm that the Microsoft 365 apps use the intended account without prompting again.

Solution 2

Clear Cached Identity Data and Registry Keys

Resolve corrupted sign-in caches caused by recent Office updates by manually clearing the OneAuth and IdentityCache folders.

Solution 3

Roll Back or Reinstall Microsoft 365

If the issue persists due to a specific update bug, reverting to a previous version or performing a clean installation can fix the loop.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office to Avoid Sign-in Loops

Tired of dealing with repeated sign-in prompts and credential loops in Microsoft 365? WPS Office offers a lightweight, hassle-free alternative that lets you open, edit, and save your documents locally without frustrating account errors.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website to download the free, lightweight installer for your PC.
2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the quick setup instructions to equip your computer with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint alternatives.
3. Open Your Files instantly: Double-click your existing Microsoft Office documents to open and edit them seamlessly without being locked out by credential requests.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX.No forced or complex sign-in loops just to access your local files.Lightweight design ensures quick installation and smooth performance.Familiar user interface allows for a seamless transition from Microsoft Office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Microsoft Office apps keep asking for my password when the web version works?

This is usually caused by corrupted cached identity data on your computer, an outdated credentials cache in Windows, or a glitch in a recent Office update that prevents desktop apps from recognizing your active web session.

Where can I find the OneAuth and IdentityCache folders?

These folders are typically located in your Windows local AppData directory under the Microsoft folder (e.g., AppData\Local\Microsoft\IdentityCache and AppData\Local\Microsoft\OneAuth). Ensure you have 'Hidden items' enabled in File Explorer to see the AppData folder.

Will running an Office Quick Repair delete my documents?

No, running a Quick Repair only replaces or fixes missing and corrupted application files for Microsoft 365. Your personal documents, spreadsheets, and presentations will remain completely safe and untouched on your drive.

Login & Account Issues