The error code 0x8015dc20 on Xbox appears when you try to launch a purchased game, but instead of starting, it shows the message “We couldn’t sign you in to Xbox Live” along with the error code. This indicates that your console failed to verify your game license or authenticate your Xbox account ownership.

The most common reason behind this issue is a disruption in communication between your Xbox and Microsoft’s servers, preventing the validation of your license or account. Other possible causes include service outages, network problems, or account synchronization errors.

1. Check Xbox Server Status

If Xbox servers are undergoing maintenance or facing temporary outages, your console will fail to verify your login tokens or licenses. Therefore, before trying any fixes, make sure that Xbox’s online services are fully operational. If the servers are down, the issue is on Microsoft’s end and cannot be fixed manually.

To check the current Xbox server status, visit this link.

2. Re-Login Through the Title Screen (If Applicable)

Note: This method applies mainly to games like Minecraft that allow access to account settings directly from the title screen.

Minecraft automatically uses a stored Microsoft login token to authenticate your account. If that token becomes corrupted or mismatched, the game cannot verify your profile. Manually logging out and signing back in from the title screen forces the game to request a new token from Microsoft’s servers, resolving the authentication error.

3. Power Cycle Your Xbox

If your console stays in Quick Resume or Instant-On mode for long periods, background services such as authentication and network modules may accumulate corrupted or expired data. This can include invalid Xbox Live sessions or broken handshakes with Microsoft’s servers. Performing a full power cycle clears all cached data and refreshes the system state.

1. Hold the Xbox button on the front of your console for about 10 seconds, until you hear the fans stop and the front lights turn off.
2. After turning off your Xbox, wait at least one minute. For a more effective reset, unplug the power cable from the wall outlet and wait 15 seconds before reconnecting it.
3. Turn your console back on using the Xbox button and wait for the full startup animation to complete.
4. Once the system boots up, try launching your game again to see if the issue is resolved.

4. Perform an Offline System Update (OSU1)

Over time, your Xbox’s core system files responsible for authentication, licensing, and network communication can become corrupted or outdated. This can lead to failed Microsoft token validation. Running an Offline System Update (OSU1) reinstalls these essential files using the latest Microsoft update package, replacing any damaged data.

To perform an offline update on your Xbox, follow the detailed guide on our website: how to Perform an Offline Update on an Xbox console.

5. Check If the Date & Timezone Settings Are Correct

Microsoft’s authentication system uses time-based security tokens that must align with your console’s system clock. If your Xbox’s date or timezone settings are incorrect, these tokens become invalid and prevent successful authentication. Ensuring the date and time are accurate will synchronize your system with Microsoft’s servers.

1. From the Xbox home screen, open Settings using the gear icon in the top-right corner.
2. Select Personalization from the right pane.
3. Go to My home Xbox.
4. Check the Make this my home Xbox option.
5. Return to the main menu and select Network Settings.
6. Choose Go offline and restart your Xbox.
7. After restarting, open Settings again.
8. Navigate to System from the left pane.
9. Select the Time option.
10. Now, set the time automatically or manually according to your region.
11. Finally, check if the error has been resolved.