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Fix Repeated Microsoft Authentication Pop-Ups on Mac
Question details
The user needs to stop an endless loop of Microsoft sign-in prompts when trying to access shared SharePoint files as an external or guest user on a Mac.
- Product
- Microsoft SharePoint / Microsoft Entra ID
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Accessing SharePoint files via shared links as an external guest using a macOS device.
- Observed behavior
- The Microsoft authentication window repeatedly pops up, asking for credentials even after the user correctly enters their email address and password.
Verify that you are logging in with the exact email address that the SharePoint invitation was sent to, as using a different alias can trigger authentication loops.
Clear Browser Cache and Use Private Browsing
Eliminate conflicting cached login sessions by clearing your browser data and accessing the SharePoint link in an incognito or private window.
Browsers often cache Microsoft credentials to keep you signed in. If you are signed into personal or other organizational accounts, SharePoint might misinterpret your session and repeatedly prompt you to authenticate.
Open Safari or Chrome on your Mac. Go to settings or preferences, locate 'Privacy & Security', and select 'Clear Browsing Data' to remove cookies and site data.
In Safari, click 'File' > 'New Private Window'. In Chrome, click 'File' > 'New Incognito Window'.
Paste the shared SharePoint file link directly into the address bar of the private window and press Enter.
Enter the specific email address that received the guest invitation, along with the verification code or password when prompted.
Sign Out of Conflicting Organizational Accounts
Prevent authentication conflicts by signing out of multiple Microsoft organizational accounts on your Mac.
Ask Tenant Administrator to Re-Invite the Guest Account
Resolve underlying Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD) permission issues by having the administrator recreate your guest access.
Experience Hassle-Free Document Collaboration with WPS Office
Tired of dealing with endless authentication pop-ups, tenant permission errors, and complex guest sign-in processes on your Mac? Switch to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and user-friendly environment for all your document needs without the confusing login loops.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the installer tailored for macOS.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Edit your files: Launch WPS Office and open your .docx, .xlsx, or .pptx files directly to start collaborating instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Mac keep asking for my Microsoft password when clicking a SharePoint link?
This usually happens due to cached login sessions conflicting with guest access permissions. Your browser might be trying to authenticate using a previously logged-in organizational account rather than the guest account invited to view the files.
What does Microsoft error code AADSTS50020 mean?
Error AADSTS50020 indicates that a user account from an external identity provider (like your personal or external work email) does not exist in the host organization's Microsoft Entra ID tenant and cannot access the requested application or file.
Can I open shared SharePoint files without installing Microsoft apps on my Mac?
Yes. When invited as a guest, you can open shared SharePoint files directly in your web browser using Office for the Web. Just ensure you are using a Private or Incognito browsing window to avoid credential conflicts.
How do I clear cached Microsoft credentials on a Mac?
You can clear cached credentials by opening the built-in 'Keychain Access' app on your Mac, searching for terms like 'Microsoft', 'Office', or 'Exchange', and deleting the matching password entries.
