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Fix Account Switch Detected Error in Microsoft 365 for Mac
Question details
The user is unable to sign into Microsoft 365 desktop applications on a new Mac due to an authentication error.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Setting up and signing into Microsoft 365 applications after migrating data to a new Mac.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft 365 applications display an 'Account Switch Detected' error and block access, even though the user can successfully sign in online and has already tried reinstalling the software.
Ensure your Mac is connected to a stable internet connection and that you have your correct Microsoft 365 login credentials ready before proceeding with these troubleshooting steps.
Verify macOS Updates and System Time
Outdated macOS versions or incorrect system time settings frequently cause communication errors with Microsoft authentication servers.
Microsoft 365 requires your system clock to be perfectly synced with global time servers for secure authentication. Similarly, pending macOS updates may contain critical security patches needed for sign-in processes.
Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner, select System Settings, navigate to General, and click Software Update. Install any available updates.
In System Settings, go to General > Date & Time. Ensure the 'Set time and date automatically' toggle is turned on.
Restart your Mac and launch any Microsoft 365 application to see if the sign-in issue is resolved.
Remove Security Software Interference
Third-party antivirus or firewall applications can block the necessary connections between Microsoft 365 apps and their licensing servers.
Test with a New macOS User Account
Creating a fresh user profile helps determine if the error is caused by corrupted local cache or conflicting user-specific background processes.
Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Mac Experience
Tired of dealing with complicated account switch errors and persistent sign-in issues? WPS Office offers a seamless, lightweight, and highly compatible productivity suite for Mac users. Enjoy a powerful office experience without the constant activation headaches.
- 1. Download the Mac version: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the installation package designed specifically for macOS.
- 2. Install the application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Open your files instantly: Launch WPS Office and immediately start editing your existing Microsoft Office documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the 'Account Switch Detected' error in Microsoft 365 for Mac?
This error usually occurs when the application detects conflicting license files, cached credentials from a previous installation, or issues caused by migrating data from an older Mac to a new one using Migration Assistant.
Can deleting cached credentials from Keychain Access fix this issue?
Yes, opening the Mac Keychain Access app and deleting all entries related to 'Microsoft Office' or 'ADAL' can often force the application to request a fresh, error-free login.
Why didn't reinstalling Microsoft 365 solve the problem?
Simply reinstalling the application files does not remove the hidden user library cache or credential files stored on your Mac. The corrupted account data persists across reinstallations unless manually cleared.
