How to fix 'Your Device Is Offline Try a Different Sign-In Method' error on Windows

Usually, re-entering the password is enough to fix the problem, but if things don't go that way then there's a bigger problem that's causing the problem.

Windows may show this error due to incorrect credentials, connection problems, a faulty Microsoft server, or even a suspended account. However, you can fix the error by following the instructions below.

1. Check login information

Before taking a closer look at how you can fix the problem, make sure you're entering the correct credentials. Maybe you're entering your old password out of habit, that's why Windows shows an error.

If you're sure about your login information and Windows still tells you the device is offline, you should reset your password.

In addition, Microsoft may have locked your account if you violated the service agreement. In this case, you should contact Microsoft technical support to get your account back.

2. Verify Microsoft Server Status

Chances are you don't have a problem but Microsoft is repairing or doing some maintenance work on its servers. You can check on the Microsoft website if the server is up and running or if there are any issues that need to be fixed.

How to fix 'Your Device Is Offline Try a Different Sign-In Method' error on Windows Picture 1

Alternatively, you can monitor Microsoft's Twitter account and enable notifications, so you can know in real time if there's a problem with Microsoft's servers.

3. Reset network settings

Windows can tell you the device is online even though it can't connect to the Internet. If you can connect to the Internet on another device, your problem may be caused by incorrect network settings. In this case, you should reset your network to default settings.

4. Update network driver

The problem can be caused by an outdated or corrupted network driver. To fix it, launch Device Manager and update your network driver. If you are running the latest version, try restarting the adapter.

5. Use a local account

Switching to a local account may be enough to fix the problem temporarily. You can still access Microsoft files, applications, and services. Alternatively, you can assign admin rights to your local account if you keep getting offline device errors.

6. Edit Windows Registry

If you are still experiencing the same error, you should look into the Windows Registry, as a faulty sub-key could be the culprit. Before editing the Registry, create a restore point in case something goes wrong.

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type regedit and press Enter.
3. In the Registry window, go to Computer > HKEY_USERS > DEFAULT > Software > Microsoft > IdentityCRL > StoredIdentities .
4. Remove the problematic subkey under StoredIdentities.
5. Restart the computer.

How to fix 'Your Device Is Offline Try a Different Sign-In Method' error on Windows Picture 2

7. Start your computer in Safe Mode

It's likely that a third party app is causing you problems. If you have multiple apps installed, it can be difficult to keep track of which apps can change system settings. In this case, it will be easier to start the computer in Safe Mode, because Windows will start with a basic set of drivers and files.

If Windows stops showing the 'Your device is offline' error, you must manually check the list of installed apps and remove the app that may be causing the problem.

David Pac

Update 27 March 2023