How to Fix “Too Many Requests” (HTTP 429) Error in Outlook

A “Too Many Requests” (HTTP 429) error appears when Microsoft’s servers detect an excessive number of sign-in attempts from the same IP address or account in a short period. This rate limit is designed to prevent automated attacks and unusual login behavior. Common causes include network instability, repeated login retries, and temporary throttling on Microsoft’s side.

Before trying any fix, check status.office.com to ensure Microsoft services are online. If there’s an active outage, you’ll need to wait until it’s resolved.

1. Wait 15–30 Minutes and Try Again

This error is usually temporary. After 15–30 minutes of no login attempts, the rate limit resets automatically. Try signing in again using the correct credentials.

2. Switch to Mobile Data or Hotspot

If the block is tied to your current IP address, switching to a different network (such as mobile data) assigns a new IP. This can bypass the block.

For Mobile Users:

1. Close the Outlook app and turn off Wi-Fi.
2. Enable mobile data to obtain a new IP address.
   
3. Relaunch Outlook and sign in again.

For PC Users:

1. Enable mobile data on your phone and turn on its Hotspot feature.
   
2. Disconnect your PC from Wi-Fi and connect it to the mobile hotspot.
   
3. After connecting, try logging into Outlook again.

Note: This method only works if the rate limit is IP-based. If the block is account-based, continue with the next step.

3. Use a VPN

VPNs assign a different exit IP address by routing your traffic through another server, potentially avoiding the rate limit on your original network.

1. Install a trusted VPN (e.g., Proton VPN).
   
2. Open Extensions (puzzle icon near address bar), and connect the VPN.
3. Select a server location and connect.
   
4. Once connected, open Outlook and sign in again.

Warning: On managed devices or work accounts, VPN usage might be blocked by your organization. Check with your IT administrator before using this method.

4. Try a Private Window or Different Browser

Sometimes, a corrupted login session or redirect loop in the browser can trigger this error. Using an incognito window bypasses cached cookies and sessions.

1. Open your browser in Incognito/Private mode.
2. Visit Outlook.com and attempt to log in again.

Tip: You can also try signing out of all devices linked to your account before retrying.

5. Clear Outlook Cache (Android)

Clearing cached login files forces Outlook to start a fresh login session, resolving issues tied to corrupted session data.

1. Open your phone’s Settings.
2. Go to Apps and select Outlook.
3. Tap Storage > Clear Cache.
   
4. Reopen the Outlook app and log in.

Note: On iOS, cache clearing isn’t available. You may need to reinstall the app instead.

6. Disable Browser Extensions Temporarily

Extensions like ad blockers or script managers can interfere with Microsoft’s authentication flow. Disabling them can eliminate conflicts.

1. Click the three-dot menu at the top-right of your browser.
   
2. Go to Extensions > Manage Extensions.
   
3. Disable all extensions temporarily.
4. Retry logging into Outlook.

Note: Re-enable your extensions once the issue is resolved.

If none of the above methods work, the block may be applied directly to your Microsoft account and not tied to your IP or device. In that case, visit Microsoft Sign-in Support and explain your situation for manual investigation and assistance.