Fix Microsoft Word Server Error and Repeated Sign-In Requests
Question details
The user needs to resolve an issue where Microsoft Word continuously asks for sign-in credentials and displays a server error on a new device.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Setting up or opening Microsoft Word on a newly added device.
- Observed behavior
- Word repeatedly prompts the user to sign in and returns a server problem message, preventing normal use of the application.
Ensure your device has a stable internet connection and that you have your Microsoft account login credentials ready before adjusting network security settings.
Update Windows Internet Security Protocols (Enable TLS 1.2)
Outdated security protocols can block Microsoft Office from communicating with authentication servers, causing repeated sign-in loops.
Microsoft 365 relies on modern encryption to verify your account securely. If older protocols like TLS 1.0 are active while TLS 1.2 is disabled, the connection to Microsoft's server will fail and trigger continuous sign-in prompts.
Press the Win + R keys simultaneously on your keyboard to open the Run window.
Type 'inetcpl.cpl' into the Run box and press Enter to open the Internet Properties dialog.
Click on the Advanced tab at the top of the window and scroll down to the Security section in the settings list.
Uncheck the boxes for 'Use TLS 1.0' and 'Use TLS 1.1'. Ensure that the box for 'Use TLS 1.2' (or later versions if available) is checked.
Click Apply, then OK. Restart Microsoft Word and attempt to sign in again.
Verify Your Microsoft Subscription Status
An inactive, expired, or improperly synced subscription can result in authentication server errors.
Try WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Document Experience
If Microsoft Word's strict sign-in requirements and server errors are disrupting your workflow, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and reliable alternative. You can create, edit, and save documents locally without mandatory cloud authentication.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to install WPS Office on your device.
- 3. Open and Edit Immediately: Launch WPS Writer and instantly open your existing .docx files to continue working without server interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft Word keep asking me to sign in?
This usually occurs when Word fails to connect to Microsoft's servers to validate your subscription. Common causes include outdated network security protocols (like disabled TLS 1.2), corrupted credential cache, or expired subscription tokens.
What is TLS 1.2 and why does Word need it?
TLS 1.2 is an internet security protocol that encrypts the data sent between your computer and web servers. Microsoft requires TLS 1.2 or higher for secure connections; if your system is using older versions, the authentication servers will reject the connection, causing sign-in errors.
Can I use Microsoft Word offline to avoid sign-in errors?
You can use Microsoft Word offline temporarily once it has been successfully activated. However, Microsoft 365 requires your device to connect to the internet at least once every 31 days to verify the subscription, otherwise it will enter a reduced-functionality mode.
