Authentication issue in Excel

Question

Does anyone know the possible reasons for this sign in error in Excel? And why would I need to authenticate in Excel after I have already successfully logged into Windows? I am a Microsoft 365 subscriber and am using the latest desktop app. See attached screenshots. Thanks!

Answer 1

Dear Jonathan McInerny,

Good day! Thank you for posting to Microsoft Community. We are happy to help you.

We don't seem to have received a screenshot of you. At the same time, it should be noted that Office applications must be activated independently, which means that even if you log in to the Windows system, you still need to log in to the Office application to activate the Office applications.

If you are convenient, please provide a screenshot of the error message and a screenshot of the subscription information page: Manage your Microsoft 365 subscription - Microsoft Support

Sincerely,

Tin | Microsoft Community Moderator

Answer 2

Here is the screenshot. The applications were activated. I am finding that I frequently need to sign into Excel. I am not sure why that happens if I am already signed into Windows. It is easy enough to sign in from Excel, but I am teaching it to high school freshman and I would prefer to have a more seamless authentication experience to minimize distractions.

Answer 3

Hi Jonathan, Try repairing your Office>Apps & Features>In the little search box type>Office>Click on your Office>Modify>Quick repair. You could also use Online repair which as part of the process reinstall your Office. Repairing Office sorts out all sorts of problems

PS: are you using two factor authentication (two step verification). Not doing so causes all sorts of sign in problems, at least it did for me.

Answer 4

Ok. I will try that.

Is it correct to assume that the application sign in process should happen automatically once I have successfully signed into Windows? I just want to make sure I am looking at this issue with the correct expectations.

Re: 2 factor. I love the idea, on the other hand, I am teaching Excel to High School students. Introducing another means of authentication concerns me. Additionally, we are not handling sensitive data so I am a little less worried about security. Please advise if you feel I should look at this differently.

Answer 5

Hi Jonathan, Windows uses a different system to that of Office. If you open an App, e.g. Excel>File>Account>Top left hand side is where you can sign in or change the account that you sign in with. You should also see the email address for the Microsoft Account associated with your Office. While you are on the Account Page, you should click on>Update options>Update now. (They should be automatic but does not always work).

Re: Two step verification, it is absolutely essential that your students should be using it for security reasons. Please also advice your students that they organise it so that they have two means of receiving a code. E.g., so that the code can be sent to users mobile phone as well as an email account, so that if one is not available the other can be used.

How to use two-step verification with your Microsoft account - Microsoft Support

Turning two-step verification on or off for your Microsoft account - Microsoft Support