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How to Fix Project Online Connection Errors in Microsoft Project Desktop
Question details
The user needs to resolve connection and synchronization errors between Microsoft Project Desktop and Project Online.
- Product
- Microsoft Project Desktop
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Connecting Microsoft Project Desktop to Project Web App (PWA) to manage, sync, and edit projects.
- Observed behavior
- The application displays a 'Project was unable to establish a connection' error, and changes fail to synchronize even if the user has site ownership.
Ensure you have administrator access to Project Web App (PWA) and verify that your PWA URL and account licenses are active.
Enable Project Permissions Mode and Assign Users
Switching your PWA instance to Project Permissions Mode and properly adding users to the Project Managers security group resolves most connection blockages.
By default, SharePoint Permission Mode might restrict desktop clients from connecting properly or block online editing capabilities. Changing to Project Permissions Mode allows finer control over security groups, ensuring desktop clients can sync successfully.
Log in to Project Web App (PWA). Click the Settings gear icon in the top right corner and select 'PWA Settings'.
Navigate to 'Additional Server Settings'. Under the Permission Management section, select 'Project Permissions Mode' and save your configuration.
Return to the PWA Settings menu. Under the Security section, click on 'Manage Groups' and locate the 'Project Managers' group.
Add the specific client or user who needs to connect via Microsoft Project Desktop to this group, save the changes, and attempt to connect again from the desktop app.
Manage Your Projects Efficiently with WPS Office
While enterprise solutions like Microsoft Project can be complex to configure, WPS Office provides a lightweight, free alternative for everyday project tracking. Enjoy a familiar interface and seamless compatibility with standard Office formats without the steep learning curve.
- 1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for free from the official website and install it on your device.
- 2. Choose a Project Template: Open WPS Spreadsheet, go to the template library, and search for 'Project Management' or 'Gantt Chart'.
- 3. Start Tracking: Input your tasks, set timelines, and instantly share the file with your team for seamless collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I get a connection error despite having the correct PWA URL?
Even with the correct Project Web App URL, Project Desktop requires the user to have specific permissions. If SharePoint Permission Mode is active instead of Project Permissions Mode, or if the user is missing from the Project Managers group, the connection will be refused.
Where can I find the Project Managers security group in Project Web App?
You can locate this group by clicking the gear icon to open Settings, then navigating to PWA Settings. Under the Security section, select 'Manage Groups' to view and edit the Project Managers list.
Why can users view projects online but cannot edit them or sync desktop changes?
This usually occurs when a user is granted general site ownership but lacks the explicit project management permissions required by the desktop client. Switching to Project Permissions Mode and assigning the user to the Project Managers group resolves this synchronization restriction.
