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Fix OneDrive Sign-In Stuck on Loading and Upload Pending
Question details
The user is unable to sign in to the OneDrive desktop app due to an infinite loading spinner, resulting in files remaining in an Upload Pending status.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Attempting to sign in to the OneDrive desktop application to sync local files to the cloud.
- Observed behavior
- The OneDrive desktop app states no account is connected and clicking Sign In displays a continuous loading spinner indefinitely. Files are stuck in Upload Pending, even though the web version of OneDrive works normally.
Check if Microsoft is experiencing a widespread service outage before attempting to reinstall the app or modify system settings, as a server issue is the most common cause of an infinite loading screen.
Check Microsoft Service Status
Determine if the issue is a temporary Microsoft server outage rather than a problem with your local application.
An infinite spinning wheel during sign-in often indicates that the Microsoft authentication servers are temporarily down. During an active outage, troubleshooting steps like reinstalling the app will not work.
Open your web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft Service Health portal or their service status page.
Look for 'OneDrive' in the list of consumer or business services to see if there is an ongoing incident or reported outage.
If an outage is confirmed, wait until Microsoft resolves the issue on their end before attempting to sign in to the desktop app again.
Restart the OneDrive Desktop App
If Microsoft servers are fully operational but the app remains stuck, a clean restart can clear temporary connection glitches.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Cloud Integration
If Microsoft services are causing workflow interruptions, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a highly capable, free alternative that offers robust built-in cloud storage (WPS Cloud) and flawless compatibility with all standard Office file formats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneDrive work in my browser but not on the desktop app?
The desktop application relies on different background authentication and sync endpoints than the web version. A service outage might affect desktop syncing services specifically, while the web interface remains functional.
Will reinstalling OneDrive fix the infinite loading screen?
If the loading screen is caused by a global Microsoft service outage, uninstalling and reinstalling the application will not fix the problem. You will still experience the infinite loading spinner until the server issue is resolved.
How can I access my files if the desktop app is down?
You can manually log in to the OneDrive website using your web browser. From there, you can view, download, and upload files manually until the desktop application's service is fully restored.
