microsoft login issus

Question

I try to open a microsoft file like excel and it asks me to login in. I put in my user id and then is says i need the internet. My internet is connected and I can open other files like pdf files browse etx

Answer 1

The sign-in prompt plus “need the internet” message indicates Office cannot reliably reach Microsoft’s online services, even though general internet access works.

Try these steps in order:

1. Confirm Windows can use the connection for sign-in
   • On the Windows sign-in or lock screen, select Network and verify the device is actually connected (Wi‑Fi or Ethernet) and has internet access.
   • If Wi‑Fi is weak or unstable, temporarily connect the PC directly to the router/modem with an Ethernet cable.
   • If using Ethernet, unplug and firmly reinsert the cable until it clicks.
   • Test the internet from another device on the same network to rule out a broader network issue.
2. Check that Office can reach Microsoft services
   • If the message appears only when opening or saving certain files stored in OneDrive or SharePoint, the connection to those online locations may be slow or interrupted even though other sites work.
   • Try opening a file that is stored locally on the PC (for example, on Desktop or Documents) to see if the sign-in/internet message still appears.
3. Verify subscription and sign-in account
   • Sign in to the Microsoft account portal in a browser and confirm the Microsoft 365/Office subscription is active.
   • In an Office app (Word/Excel): go to File > Account, make sure the correct account is shown, and use the option to update or refresh the license, then sign in again.
4. If the problem persists on this PC only
   • Compare with another computer on the same network. If the other device can sign in to Office normally, the issue is likely specific to this Windows installation or Office installation.
   • In stubborn cases where sign-in and connectivity issues persist only on one machine, a full Windows repair or reinstall has resolved similar login/network errors for other users while preserving personal files.

If after these steps Office still reports no internet while other apps work, contact Microsoft support for deeper, device-specific troubleshooting before considering a Windows reinstall.

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References:

• Troubleshoot Problems Signing In to Windows
• Why am I getting a message that says to troubleshoot my Internet connection?
• Why am I getting the message "Contacting the server for information"?
• I have issue signing in to my microsoft office account. - Microsoft Q&A
• I can no longer login to office. I have a subscription - Microsoft Q&A
• How to fix the issue with MS Office asking you to log in every time you open an Office app - Microsoft Q&A
• When opening Word or Excel, getting a 'subscription canceled' message but I have renewed my Office subscription - Microsoft Q&A