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Sign-in & Login Problems

How to Fix OneDrive Desktop App Stuck on Sign-In Screen

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

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.
Before you start

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.

Solution 1Recommended

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.

1
Open the Run dialog

Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.

2
Execute the reset command

Type '%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset' into the box and press Enter or click OK.

3
Restart and sign in

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.

Alternative Command: If you receive a 'Windows cannot find...' error, try typing 'C:\Program Files\Microsoft OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset' instead.
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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.