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How to Fix the Windows 11 File Explorer Please Sign In Error: Step-by-Step Solutions

Encountering the “Please Sign In” error in Windows 11 File Explorer can be frustrating, especially when you just want to access your files quickly. This issue usually appears when File Explorer tries to access network locations or shared folders requiring authentication.

Fortunately, fixing this error is often straightforward and does not require advanced technical knowledge. By following a few simple steps, you can regain seamless access to your files.

This guide will walk you through easy-to-understand solutions that address common causes of the problem. Each step is explained clearly so you can follow along without confusion.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the detailed fixes.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Ensure your Windows 11 is updated: Sometimes, system updates fix bugs related to File Explorer behavior.
  • Check your internet/network connection: A stable connection is necessary when accessing network drives or shared folders.
  • Confirm your Microsoft or local account credentials: Make sure you know the correct username and password for the network resource.
  • Restart your PC: A simple reboot can resolve temporary glitches causing sign-in prompts.

Step 1: Clear Cached Credentials

Windows stores credentials to help you sign in automatically. Sometimes, corrupted or outdated credentials cause the “Please Sign In” error. Clearing these helps refresh the login information.

  1. Press Win + S to open Search, type Credential Manager, and open it.
  2. Under Windows Credentials, look for saved credentials related to the network location or shared drive.
  3. Click on the credential entry and select Remove.
  4. Close Credential Manager and restart File Explorer by right-clicking the Start button, selecting Task Manager, finding Windows Explorer, and clicking Restart.
  5. Try accessing your files again; you will be prompted to enter your credentials anew.

Step 2: Enable Windows Credentials to Remember Your Sign-In

After clearing credentials, make sure Windows is set to remember your sign-in details for network access.

  1. When prompted to sign in, check the box labeled Remember my credentials before submitting your username and password.
  2. If you missed this step, repeat Step 1 to clear cached entries, then try signing in again.

Step 3: Adjust Network Settings to Allow File Sharing

Windows 11’s network settings can block access to shared folders if file sharing is disabled or restricted.

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Advanced sharing settings.
  3. Under your current network profile (Private or Public), make sure File and printer sharing is turned On.
  4. Also, enable Network discovery to allow your PC to find other devices.
  5. Save changes and try accessing the shared folder again.

Step 4: Check Group Policy Settings Related to Network Authentication

Sometimes, group policies restrict how Windows handles network authentication, causing sign-in errors.

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
  2. Navigate to:
    Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Credentials Delegation
  3. Find and double-click Allow delegating saved credentials with NTLM-only server authentication.
  4. Set it to Enabled.
  5. Click Show under Options, then add TERMSRV/* to the list.
  6. Apply changes and close the editor.
  7. Restart your computer to apply the policy.

Step 5: Reset File Explorer and Related Services

If the above methods do not fix the issue, resetting File Explorer and network services can clear problematic states.

  1. Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
    3. net stop workstation
net start workstation
taskkill /f /im explorer.exe
start explorer.exe
  3. This stops and restarts the network workstation service and restarts File Explorer.
  4. Try accessing your network folders again to check if the error persists.

Alternative Method: Use the System File Checker Tool

Corrupted system files can cause unexpected errors. Running the System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs these files.

  1. Open Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the command below and press Enter:
    3. sfc /scannow
  3. Wait patiently as Windows scans and repairs any corrupted files.
  4. Restart your PC after completion and check if the File Explorer sign-in issue is resolved.

FAQs

Why does File Explorer ask me to sign in repeatedly?

This usually happens due to incorrect or expired saved credentials, network permission issues, or problems with authentication settings.

Can I bypass the sign-in prompt completely?

Not safely. The prompt protects your files and network security. However, saving your credentials with “Remember my credentials” can minimize repeated prompts.

Is this error related to my Microsoft account or local account?

It can affect both, depending on the network resource you’re accessing. The sign-in is for network authentication, not necessarily your Windows login.

Does this issue occur only with shared network folders?

Mostly yes, especially when accessing shared drives, NAS devices, or remote folders requiring credentials.

Will disabling antivirus or firewall help?

Sometimes, security software can interfere with network authentication. Temporarily disabling them can help diagnose the issue but be careful and re-enable protection afterward.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and still face the error, consider these final options:

  • Contact your network administrator: There may be permissions or policy restrictions beyond your control.
  • Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the network troubleshooter.
  • Check official Microsoft support: Visit Microsoft Windows Support for updates and expert help.
  • Consider a system restore: If the issue started recently, restoring your system to an earlier point can fix corrupted settings.

Conclusion

The “Please Sign In” error in Windows 11 File Explorer is a common but fixable problem. It mainly relates to network credentials, sharing settings, or system policies. By clearing cached credentials, enabling file sharing, and checking authentication policies, you can usually solve the issue quickly.

Remember to keep your system updated and maintain proper network security settings. If the problem persists, advanced tools like System File Checker or professional support may be necessary.

Following these clear, step-by-step instructions will help you restore smooth access to your files without frustration.

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