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Sign-in & Login Problems

How to Fix Microsoft App Sign-In Stalling on iPad Pro

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to sign in to Microsoft applications because the authentication page continuously refreshes or stalls before the password field appears.

Product
Microsoft Apps (Outlook, Word, Excel)
Device & OS
iPad Pro / iPadOS
Scenario
Attempting to log into Microsoft applications to access, edit, or sync documents and emails.
Observed behavior
The sign-in screen continuously refreshes or gets stuck instead of proceeding to the password input field, completely blocking login.
Before you start

Verify that your iPad has a stable internet connection and ensure you have your correct Microsoft account credentials ready before troubleshooting the app login.

Solution 1Recommended

Disable Active VPNs and Switch Networks

VPNs can interfere with Microsoft's authentication servers, causing the sign-in page to loop. Disabling the VPN temporarily is the most effective fix.

Authentication processes require secure and direct communication with Microsoft servers. When a VPN routes your traffic through different locations, Microsoft's security protocols may flag or block the connection, resulting in a continuous page refresh.

1
Open iPad Settings

Navigate to the home screen of your iPad Pro and tap the 'Settings' app.

2
Disable Native VPN

Tap on 'VPN' in the left-hand menu and toggle the switch to the 'Off' position.

3
Disconnect Third-Party VPN Apps

If you use a dedicated VPN application (like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, etc.), open the app and tap the disconnect button.

4
Retry App Sign-in

Force close the stalled Microsoft app, reopen it, and attempt to sign in again without the VPN active.

Sign-in Successful: Once you have successfully signed in to the Microsoft app, you can usually re-enable your VPN without affecting your active session.
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Seamless iPad Experience

If you are tired of dealing with authentication loops, sign-in errors, or bulky applications on your iPad Pro, WPS Office offers a powerful, lightweight, and free alternative. It allows you to view and edit files immediately without complex network dependencies.

  1. 1. Download from App Store: Open the App Store on your iPad Pro and search for 'WPS Office'.
  2. 2. Install and Open: Tap 'Get' to install the app, then open it directly from your home screen.
  3. 3. Start Creating: Tap the '+' icon to instantly create a new document, spreadsheet, or presentation without jumping through sign-in hoops.
Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx).No mandatory immediate sign-in required to read and edit local files.Lightweight all-in-one app that takes up less storage space on your iPad.Features a familiar, touch-friendly UI optimized for iPadOS and Apple Pencil.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Microsoft sign-in page keep refreshing on my iPad?

This is typically caused by network interference. When a VPN or strict firewall is active, it can block the app from securely reaching Microsoft's authentication servers, causing the login page to loop or refresh instead of loading the password field.

Do I need to delete and reinstall the Microsoft app to fix this?

Generally, no. Disabling your VPN or switching to a different Wi-Fi network resolves the issue in most cases. If the problem persists after checking your network, you can then try clearing the app data or reinstalling the application.

Will I have to keep my VPN off permanently to use Microsoft apps?

No. The interference usually only happens during the initial authentication phase. Once you successfully log in and authenticate your account, you can typically turn your VPN back on and continue using the apps normally.

Can I use WPS Office without an internet connection or sign-in?

Yes. WPS Office allows you to view and edit local documents on your iPad without an internet connection. You are not forced to sign in just to access files saved on your device, making it highly reliable when traveling or dealing with network issues.