How to fix
OneDrive error 0x8004de81
on Windows

Hi, I recently encountered an error message while trying to sign into my OneDrive account on my Windows 10 PC. The error code displayed is 0x8004de81, and it prevents me from accessing my files stored on OneDrive. I've tried restarting my computer and signing in again, but the problem persists. Could you provide any solutions or workarounds to fix this error?

When attempting to access OneDrive, users might occasionally encounter the sign-in error 0x8004de81. This error is not just a minor inconvenience; it signifies a deeper issue within the system or network configuration that prevents successful authentication and access to OneDrive services. Our goal is to shed light on the possible causes and the nature of this error to help users and IT professionals better understand and troubleshoot it effectively.

The error code 0x8004de81 often arises due to several underlying factors that can disrupt the normal operation of OneDrive. Primarily, it could be attributed to network connection issues that hinder the OneDrive app from communicating with its servers. Additionally, incorrect account settings or outdated application versions can contribute to this problem, preventing the user from signing in successfully.

In some instances, this error may also indicate a more complex situation involving the synchronization of account credentials between the local device and OneDrive's online services. When the credentials do not match or when there's an error in the token refresh process, OneDrive might be unable to verify the user's identity, leading to the 0x8004de81 error.

When trying to fix OneDrive error 0x8004de81, common solutions include checking account settings, updating the OneDrive application, and making sure the network is stable. Below we provide detailed instructions that will guide you through this process. If problems are more deeply rooted within your operating system, we recommend trying a PC repair tool [d1], which can address any underlying Windows issues automatically.

Fix 1. Run troubleshooters

First and foremost, you should check whether you have problems with the app itself and the internet connection. For that, you can start with the built-in troubleshooters:

• Type Troubleshoot in Windows search and press Enter.
• Select Additional troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters.
• Find Windows Store Apps from the list and select Run the troubleshooter/Run.
• Then, run Network & Internet troubleshooter.
• Wait till the process is finished and apply the offered fixes.
• Restart your device.

Fix 2. Update OneDrive

Usually, OneDrive updates automatically. But in case it doesn't, you can always use any other Office app to update the whole package. Follow these steps:

• Open any Office app, such as Microsoft Word, and navigate to File.
• From the file menu, select Account.
• Under Product Information, locate and click on Update Options.
• From the dropdown list, select Update Now. The program will then check for available updates and install them.

Fix 3. Reset OneDrive

Resetting OneDrive can resolve issues by refreshing your account settings and file synchronization without losing data.

• Press Win + R on your keyboard.
• When the Run window opens, copy and paste the following text into it:
  %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset
  (use %programfiles(x86)%\Microsoft OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset instead if you get an error here)
• Press Enter or click OK.
• After this command is executed, the app should be reset, and OneDrive should open.
• If it doesn't, wait a few minutes, then open the Run window again and use the following command:
  %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe
• Press Enter.

Fix 4. Reset your internet connection

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on the Command Prompt result and select Run as administrator.
• Copy and paste each of the following commands, pressing Enter every time:
  ipconfig /flushdns
  ipconfig /registerdns
  ipconfig /release
  ipconfig /renew
  netsh winsock reset
• Restart your system.

Fix 5. Disable firewall or antivirus temporarily

Sometimes, firewall or antivirus software can block OneDrive from signing in.

• Open your antivirus or firewall settings from the system tray or Control Panel.
• Look for an option to temporarily disable them.
• Try signing into OneDrive again. If successful, add an exception for OneDrive in your firewall or antivirus settings before re-enabling it.

Fix 6. Re-link your OneDrive

Signing out and then back into your OneDrive account can refresh your session and resolve sign-in issues.

• Click on the OneDrive icon in the system tray.
• Go to Help & Settings and then choose Unlink this PC.
• When prompted, confirm with Unlink this PC.
• After signing out, sign back in with your credentials.

Fix 7. Reinstall OneDrive

You can always opt for an advanced method of OneDrive reinstall. Here's how:

• Open Command as administrator.
• Type in the following and press Enter to terminate any leftover OneDrive processes:
  taskkill /f /im OneDrive.exe
• If you are using 64-bit Windows, use the following command and hit Enter:
  %SystemRoot%\SysWOW64\OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall
• If you are using 32-bit Windows, use the following command and hit Enter:
  %SystemRoot%\System32\OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall
• After that, restart your PC.
• Reinstall OneDrive from the official Microsoft website.