Edge Primary Password Stopped Working (I do NOT change the password)

Question

While trying to use the Microsoft Edge browser with a stored password, the request for a Primary Password pops (which is typical and is supposed to happen).

When I enter my Primary Password, which I definitely know is correct (I was NOT hacked and did NOT change my password), the message "authentication failed" pops up.

Others have asked this question for several weeks and so far Microsoft has not fixed this CRITICAL problem. Microsoft Team - fix this IMMEDIATELY. You cannot expect people to use a browser that is unreliable, especially when it comes to using ones password from the password manager!!!

Answer 1

Hi,

Thank you for taking the time to share your concerns I completely understand why this situation feels unacceptable especially when it involves something as critical as accessing passwords. You’re absolutely right that users should not have to rely on workarounds for core functionality and your feedback on that point is valid.

To clarify the workaround I mentioned isn’t intended as a “proper” solution or something we believe users should have to do. It’s only meant as an optional temporary step that has helped some affected users get unblocked while the Engineering team continues investigating the underlying issue.

I want to reassure you that this problem has been escalated internally and engineering is actively working on a fix. Unfortunately until that update is released some users may still encounter the Primary Password authentication failure.

I truly appreciate your patience and your direct feedback while Microsoft works to resolve this.

Regards,

Marcelo

Answer 2

Hello Jay,

Thank you for reaching out about the issue with your Primary Password in Microsoft Edge I understand how frustrating it can be when something that worked before suddenly stops especially when you are certain your password is correct. This situation can happen due to known issues related to authentication flows in Edge where session or local storage may be cleared during redirects across different security zones, this can lead to authentication failures even when the password is valid.

One possible workaround is to add the application domain and any related sites involved in the authentication process as trusted sites in your browser’s security settings. Doing this can help maintain session integrity and prevent failures during authentication. Additionally make sure your browser is updated to the latest version as Microsoft is actively working on fixes for these issues.

Could you confirm if adding the sites as trusted resolves the problem for you?

I hope this answer is helpful if you have further questions feel free to reply back

Regards,

Marcelo

Answer 3

If you are experiencing issues with the Primary Password in Microsoft Edge where it fails to authenticate despite being correct, it could be related to known issues with the browser. Users have reported various authentication problems, particularly with session storage and local storage being cleared when redirected across security zones. This can lead to errors during the authentication process, including infinite redirect loops and authentication failures.

As a workaround, ensure that the application domain and any other sites involved in the redirects of the authentication flow are added as trusted sites in the security settings of the browser. This may help in resolving the authentication issues you are facing.

It's also advisable to keep an eye on updates from Microsoft regarding this issue, as they are aware of the problems and are working on resolutions.

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References:

• Known issues on Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge browsers (MSAL.js)
• Microsoft Edge known issues