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OneDrive is a handy tool for syncing files between your Windows 11 PC and the cloud. However, sometimes you might face an authentication error that stops you from signing in or syncing your files.

This error can be frustrating but is usually fixable with some simple steps. In this article, we will guide you through easy and effective solutions to resolve OneDrive authentication errors on Windows 11.

Whether you are new to OneDrive or just want to fix the problem quickly, these instructions are detailed and straightforward. Let’s get your OneDrive working smoothly again.

Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand some quick checks and requirements to keep in mind.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

• Check your internet connection: OneDrive needs a stable internet connection to authenticate properly. Make sure you are connected to a reliable network.
• Verify your Microsoft account: Ensure you are using the correct email and password for your Microsoft account linked to OneDrive.
• Keep Windows updated: Sometimes, outdated Windows versions can cause app issues. Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated.
• Restart your PC: A simple restart can often clear minor glitches affecting OneDrive.

Step 1: Sign Out and Sign Back Into OneDrive

Signing out and back in can refresh your OneDrive connection and fix authentication problems.

1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner of your screen).
2. Click on the Help & Settings gear icon.
3. Select Settings from the menu.
4. Go to the Account tab.
5. Click Unlink this PC to sign out of OneDrive.
6. After unlinking, OneDrive will prompt you to sign in again. Enter your Microsoft account credentials carefully.

Why this helps: Signing out clears any cached authentication tokens that might have become invalid or corrupted.

Step 2: Clear OneDrive Credentials from Windows Credential Manager

Sometimes, stored credentials can become outdated or corrupted, causing authentication issues.

1. Press Windows + S to open the Search bar.
2. Type Credential Manager and open it.
3. Click on Windows Credentials.
4. Look for any entries related to OneDrive or Microsoft Office.
5. Click each relevant entry and select Remove.
6. Close Credential Manager and restart your PC.
7. Try signing into OneDrive again.

Why this helps: Removing old or corrupted credentials forces Windows to prompt for fresh login details, resolving conflicts.

Step 3: Reset OneDrive App

Resetting OneDrive will clear its cache and settings but won’t delete your files on the cloud or PC.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type the following command exactly and press Enter:

%localappdata%MicrosoftOneDriveonedrive.exe /reset

Wait a few minutes. OneDrive will restart automatically. If it doesn’t start, open it manually by searching for “OneDrive” in the Start menu.

Why this helps: Resetting fixes many app-level issues by restoring OneDrive to its default state.

Step 4: Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings on your PC can cause authentication failures with Microsoft services.

1. Right-click the clock on the taskbar.
2. Select Adjust date and time.
3. Ensure Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically are turned on.
4. If they are already on, toggle them off and on again.
5. Restart your PC and check OneDrive again.

Why this helps: Security tokens rely on accurate system time to validate your login.

Step 5: Update OneDrive Manually

An outdated OneDrive version can lead to authentication errors. Here’s how to update it:

1. Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
2. Click the three-dot menu at the top right and select Downloads and updates.
3. Click Get updates to check for OneDrive updates.
4. If an update is available, it will download and install automatically.
5. Once updated, restart OneDrive and try signing in again.

Alternative Method: Use the OneDrive Web Version Temporarily

If you are unable to fix the authentication error immediately, you can access your files using the OneDrive website:

• Go to https://onedrive.live.com/
• Sign in with your Microsoft account credentials.
• You can upload, download, and manage files until your app issue is resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why am I getting an authentication error on OneDrive?

This usually happens when your login credentials are incorrect, expired, or when OneDrive’s cached data becomes corrupted. Network issues or incorrect system time can also cause this problem.

Does resetting OneDrive delete my files?

No. Resetting OneDrive only clears its settings and cache. Your files remain safe both on your PC and in the cloud.

Can antivirus or firewall settings cause this error?

Yes. Sometimes, security software may block OneDrive’s internet access, causing authentication failures. Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus to check if they are the cause.

How can I find out if OneDrive is down?

Visit the DownDetector OneDrive page or check Microsoft’s official service status page.

Will signing out and back in delete my files?

No, this process only resets your connection to OneDrive; your files stay intact.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps fix the authentication error, you can try the following:

• Reinstall OneDrive: Uninstall OneDrive from your PC via Settings > Apps, then download and install the latest version from the official OneDrive website.
• Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the OneDrive support page for help or use the Windows Feedback Hub to report the issue.
• Create a new Windows user account: Sometimes user profile corruption can cause issues. Setting up a fresh profile can isolate this problem.

Conclusion

OneDrive authentication errors on Windows 11 are common but can usually be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with signing out and back in, clearing credentials, resetting the app, and checking system settings often resolves the problem.

Keeping your system and OneDrive app updated also helps prevent such errors. If problems persist, reinstalling OneDrive or seeking official support are good next steps.

Following this guide will help you get OneDrive back online, ensuring your files stay synced and accessible without hassle.