If one of these resolves your problem, close the app and continue working. Use the Microsoft 365 shared computer activation (SCA) troubleshooter to enable shared computer activation for Microsoft 365 applications. If your account is locked due to multiple unsuccessful login attempts, wait for the lockout period to end.

Common Causes of Office 365 Sign-In and Activation Issues

Use the Microsoft 365 activation troubleshooter to resolve Microsoft 365 subscription activation issues. Slow performance can be due to heavy CPU usage or low available memory. Close unused tabs, background processes, or applications to free up system resources. Additionally, ensure you’ve installed all available updates, as performance improvements are often included in patches.

I can't sign in to my Microsoft account

In this comprehensive guide—KB113—we’ll explore the most common causes of Office 365 sign-in and activation issues. We’ll then walk you through a practical, step-by-step troubleshooting methodology. Combine these best practices with ongoing training and proactive license management, and you’ll be well on your way to a stable, secure Office 365 environment. Sometimes, an expired license or outdated credentials are the culprit. Other times, it might be network problems, conflicting versions of Office, or organizational security policies that block the authentication process.

What should I do if updates for Microsoft 365 apps fail to install?

Clearing cached credentials, running a repair, or using the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant (SaRA) can also address common local device issues. Verify that you’re logged into the correct Microsoft account both in OneDrive and Office apps. If syncing is paused, resume it from the OneDrive system tray icon.

Frequently asked questions

If this doesn’t work, reset Outlook Stuck on Synchronizing Folders the credentials in your Windows Credential Manager or contact Microsoft support for further assistance. Despite its robust feature set and user-friendly design, it’s not uncommon for end users and IT professionals to encounter sign-in and activation issues. If you or your employees can’t sign in to Office 365, or if the applications repeatedly prompt for activation, productivity can grind to a halt.

• Other times, it might be network problems, conflicting versions of Office, or organizational security policies that block the authentication process.
• Open apps in Safe Mode to bypass add-ins and check for improvements.
• If you encounter this error – Sorry, we are having temporary server issues, then chances are that the issue lies at Microsoft’s end.
• You might find it simple, but the most common cause of login failure is entering the wrong username and password combinations.
• Go to any Office app and ensure you’re signed in with the same Microsoft account linked to your license.
• In this comprehensive guide—KB113—we’ll explore the most common causes of Office 365 sign-in and activation issues.
• And if your environment is particularly security-conscious, keep in mind that policy-based blocks on specific devices or geographic regions can also interfere with Office activation.

What can I do if I experience issues syncing emails in Outlook?

Yes, Microsoft 365 works offline for most apps like Word and Excel. Simply open the Office app normally, and all your files are saved locally until internet access resumes. For cloud-based services like Outlook or OneDrive, offline access won’t work until you sync online again. Make sure to save any updates for immediate syncing once a Outlook sync help from FixTechGuide connection is re-established. Always verify offline availability settings for critical documents you might need.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Microsoft Office 365 Login Issues

According to a recent report, approximately 60% of Microsoft 365 users have experienced login issues at least once in the past year. This shows that the problem is widespread and it is affecting millions of users worldwide. For more advanced or persistent cases, reviewing Azure AD sign-in logs, double-checking MFA setups, or investigating Conditional Access policies may be necessary. And if your environment is particularly security-conscious, keep in mind that policy-based blocks on specific devices or geographic regions can also interfere with Office activation. If the license is valid and assigned correctly, the next steps involve checking network-related blocks and performing initial device-level troubleshooting.





If you’re unable to sign in to your Microsoft 365 account, ensure you’re using the correct email and password. Locked accounts, due to multiple failed attempts, may require waiting or following unlock instructions. Check your internet connection, as weak connectivity can cause issues. For work or school accounts, confirm with your organization that your account is active.

Remove and inbox repair tool alternative re-add your Office account within the app for reconnection. Start by verifying your subscription status to ensure it’s still active. Go to any Office app and ensure you’re signed in with the same Microsoft account linked to your license. Remove and re-add your account under the "Account" settings of the app if needed.