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Invalid Client Error while setting up new computer

Anonymous
2025-02-06T22:29:59+00:00

I am setting up a new employees computer and when attempting to log them into their Microsoft business account I get the following error, business assist is as usual way too slow in getting back to me. This is time sensitive and I thought the community could help quicker. - any help would be appreciated.

error subcode is description: failed%20to%20authenticate%20user

*** Moved from Microsoft 365 and Office / Other / For business / Other ***

Windows Windows Client for IT Pros Identity and access User logon and profiles

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-02-07T05:56:14+00:00

    Hello

    The "Invalid Client Error" with the subcode indicating failed authentication can stem from several issues. Here's a structured approach to resolve it:

    1. Verify User Account Status in Azure AD

    Check if the account is fully provisioned: Ensure the new employee’s account exists in Azure AD and isn’t in a "Pending" state.

    Confirm licensing: Assign the correct Microsoft 365/Azure AD license to the account (e.g., Business Premium, E3).

    Account activation: Ensure the user has completed the initial sign-in process (if required).

    1. Check for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Requirements

    If MFA is enforced, ensure the user has registered their MFA method (phone, Authenticator app) before signing in. If not, temporarily disable MFA for testing (re-enable afterward).

    1. Network/Firewall Issues

    Ensure the network isn’t blocking Microsoft authentication endpoints (e.g., login.microsoftonline.com, *.microsoft.com).

    Test on a different network (e.g., mobile hotspot) to rule out corporate firewall issues.

    1. Browser/Device-Specific Fixes

    Clear browser cache/cookies: Stale data might conflict with the login process.

    Try an InPrivate/Incognito window to bypass extensions.

    Check system time/date: Incorrect time zones or clock skew (>5 minutes off) break authentication. Sync the device’s clock.

    1. Azure AD Application Configuration (If Using Custom Apps)

    If authenticating via an app, ensure:

    The client ID and secret are correct.

    Redirect URIs match Azure AD app registrations.

    API permissions are granted (e.g., User.Read, offline_access).

    1. Check Azure AD Sign-In Logs

    Admin steps:

    Go to Azure Portal > Azure AD > Sign-in logs.

    Filter by the user’s failed login attempt.

    Check the Failure Reason for specifics (e.g., "Invalid client secret," "User not found," or conditional access blocking).

    1. Conditional Access Policies

    Ensure no policies block the user’s location/device. Temporarily exempt the user or adjust the policy for testing.

    1. Password/Token Reset

    Reset the user’s password (if they’re using a password) and ensure they use the new credentials.

    If using device registration (e.g., Azure AD Join), re-register the device.

    1. Hybrid Environment Sync Issues

    If syncing from on-premises AD, check Azure AD Connect for sync errors or delays.

    I hope the above information is helpful to you.

    Best regards

    Runjie Zhai

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