Problem:
Outlook is one of the most popular email clients in the world, but sometimes users encounter the annoying issue where it repeatedly asks for a password. Even after entering the correct login information, the prompt appears again and again, making it impossible to send or receive emails.
Common signs of the password prompt loop include:
- Outlook pops up a login window every few minutes.
- Correct credentials are not saved, and you keep being asked to re-enter them.
- Emails don’t sync, and the “Need password” message stays on the status bar.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) codes may be requested repeatedly.
This issue is frustrating for individuals who rely on email for personal communication, and even more disruptive for businesses where productivity and customer communication depend on reliable access to Outlook.
Solution:
Fortunately, there are several proven steps you can take to resolve the persistent password prompt loop in Outlook. Here’s a detailed guide:
1. Check Microsoft Service Status
Sometimes the problem is not with your computer but with Microsoft’s servers.
- Visit status.office.com to check if Outlook or Microsoft 365 is experiencing an outage.
- If it’s a known issue, you may simply need to wait until Microsoft resolves it.
2. Update Outlook to the Latest Version
Older versions of Outlook may not handle authentication changes properly.
- Open File → Office Account → Update Options → Update Now.
- Restart Outlook after the update.
3. Clear Cached Credentials
Outdated or corrupted credentials can cause repeated password prompts.
- Close Outlook.
- Open Windows Credential Manager (search in Start menu).
- Remove any saved credentials related to Outlook, MicrosoftOffice, or your email account.
- Restart Outlook and enter your login details again.
4. Enable “Remember Password” and Check Settings
- Go to File → Account Settings → Account Settings.
- Double-click your account → ensure “Remember password” is checked.
- Verify that your username and email address are correct.
5. Check Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
If you’re using 2FA with your Microsoft account:
- Make sure your phone’s time and date are set to update automatically.
- Use the Microsoft Authenticator app or backup codes if SMS codes are delayed.
- Consider generating an app password (from your Microsoft account security settings) to use with older versions of Outlook that don’t support modern authentication.
6. Repair or Re-add Your Account
If the issue persists:
- Go to File → Account Settings → Email → Repair to let Outlook automatically fix issues.
- If that doesn’t work, remove your account from Outlook and add it again.
- Ensure that IMAP/Exchange server settings match Microsoft’s official configuration.
7. Check Network and Firewall Settings
Sometimes firewalls, VPNs, or antivirus software block Outlook’s connection.
- Temporarily disable your VPN and try logging in again.
- Check if your firewall or antivirus is blocking Outlook’s access to Microsoft servers.
Final Thoughts
The Outlook password prompt loop is a common but solvable problem. In many cases, it’s caused by cached credentials, outdated versions of Outlook, or temporary Microsoft service issues. By following the steps above—checking service health, clearing stored passwords, updating Outlook, and re-adding your account—you can usually restore normal access.
If the issue continues even after trying all fixes, contact Microsoft Support for further assistance, especially if you’re using a business or school account.
