How to Fix OneDrive Desktop App Stuck on Sign-In Screen
Question details
The user is unable to access the OneDrive desktop client because it gets stuck in a continuous sign-in loop.
- Product
- OneDrive Desktop App
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to log into the OneDrive desktop client after reinstallation.
- Observed behavior
- The application remains stuck on a spinning sign-in screen, despite web login functioning normally for the same account.
Verify your internet connection stability and confirm that you can still successfully log in to your OneDrive account via a web browser before troubleshooting the desktop client.
Reset the OneDrive Desktop Application
Resetting OneDrive can resolve sync and sign-in loop issues by refreshing the application's configuration and cached data.
A spinning sign-in screen often points to corrupted cache files or stuck background processes. Running a manual reset forces the desktop client to clear these files and restart its connection to the Microsoft servers without deleting your actual personal data.
Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.
Type '%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset' into the box and press Enter or click OK.
Wait a few minutes for the OneDrive cloud icon to disappear and reappear in the system tray. Once it restarts, open the app and attempt to sign in again.
Collect Diagnostics and Contact Microsoft Support
If resetting the application does not work, gather your system information and reach out to official support securely.
Use WPS Office and WPS Cloud for Seamless File Management
If you are tired of sync issues with Microsoft services, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with its own reliable built-in WPS Cloud storage, ensuring your documents are safely synced across all your devices.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free WPS Office suite.
- 2. Create a WPS Account: Sign up for a free WPS account to unlock built-in WPS Cloud storage.
- 3. Sync Your Files: Save your documents directly to WPS Cloud to access them seamlessly across your desktop and mobile devices.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my OneDrive stuck on the spinning sign-in screen?
This usually happens due to corrupted cached credentials, network interference, or a glitch in the application's configuration files that requires a manual reset.
Will resetting OneDrive delete my personal files?
No, running the reset command only refreshes the application's settings and resyncs your metadata. Your actual files stored in the cloud or locally on your hard drive will remain entirely intact.
Can I still access my files while the desktop app is stuck?
Yes, as long as you have web access, you can navigate to the OneDrive website using any internet browser and sign in to securely view, download, or upload your files.




