How to Fix OneDrive Sign-in Error 0x8004deef in Windows?

When users try to sign into their OneDrive account, they encounter the error ‘There was a problem connecting to OneDrive’ with error code ‘0x8004deef‘. This error typically occurs due to license issues from the Azure AD settings that prevent you from accessing the account.

Other factors causing this issue include cached account identities, insufficient permissions from the admin, and issues with the OneDrive settings.

1. Disable VPN

A VPN service running in the background can cause internet issues and delays that can create problems while signing into OneDrive. Disabling the VPN is recommended, as it will allow direct internet access to OneDrive without the interruption of any third-party network.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet > VPN.
   
3. Disconnect any active VPN connections.

2. Check Date and Time

If your computer’s date and time are incorrect, you might not be able to log into Microsoft 365 apps like OneDrive. Make sure your computer’s clock is set correctly. This might help you log in without any problems.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Click on Time & Language > Date & Time.
   
3. Enable ‘Set time automatically‘ and ‘Set time zone automatically‘.
   

3. Disable Antivirus

Security software can sometimes interfere with OneDrive and block its usage. Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall to see if it resolves the issue. Ensure that you re-enable it afterward for protection.

You can check our article on how to disable antivirus here.

4. Reset OneDrive Settings

Sometimes corrupted settings in OneDrive can cause this issue. It is suggested to reset OneDrive before signing into a new account. This will provide a new environment for the new account and can help in solving the issue.

1. 1. Press Windows + R to open Run. Type the following and press Enter.

      %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset

      

5. Clear Cached Account Identities

Previously stored account identities can cause issues while signing into an account. To solve this problem, you can clear cached account identities. This will help provide a clean space for the new account to log in, which can assist in resolving the problem.

1. Search for ‘Registry Editor‘ in the search box and open it.
   
2. Locate the following path:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Common\

3. Delete the Identity subfolder.
   

6. Try a Different Browser or Device

A temporary bug on the device you’re currently using could be causing the issue. Therefore, it is suggested to use a different browser or device, like a laptop. For browsers, it is recommended to use Firefox.

7. Contact IT Department

If none of the solutions work for you, it is suggested to contact your IT department and Azure AD admin, as they have access to your work account settings and permissions.

8. Verify Account License

Make sure that your Microsoft account has a valid OneDrive license. If you are using an educational or business account, confirm with your administrator that OneDrive is included in your subscription. This will help ensure that this is not a licensing issue.