Alex Ruben
Comprehensive Guide to Fixing Xbox App Login Error 401 on Windows
Experiencing login errors with the Xbox app can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your gaming experience. The Xbox App Login Error 401 typically indicates issues related to your account or app settings. This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process to identify and resolve the error effectively. By following these methods, you will be able to restore functionality to your Xbox app on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices.
Before you begin, ensure that you have administrative access to your Windows device. Familiarity with navigating through the Windows settings and using the Command Prompt is also beneficial. This guide is suitable for all PC, desktop, and laptop users running compatible versions of Windows.
Step 1: Disable VPN or Proxy Settings
Sometimes, VPNs or proxy servers can interfere with the Xbox app’s connectivity. To begin troubleshooting, check if you have any VPN or proxy services enabled:
- Open the Settings menu by pressing the Windows key and selecting Settings.
- Navigate to Network & Internet.
- Select VPN from the left pane and disconnect any active connections.
- For proxy settings, click on Proxy and ensure the Use a proxy server option is turned off.
Once you’ve disabled any VPN or proxy connections, restart your device and attempt to log into the Xbox app again.
Step 2: Reset the Xbox App
If disabling the VPN or proxy does not resolve the error, the next step is to reset the Xbox app:
- Press the Windows key and type Xbox to search for the app.
- Right-click on the Xbox app from the search results and select App settings.
- Scroll down and click on Terminate to close the app.
- Next, click on Reset to restore the app to its default settings.
Wait for the reset process to complete, then try logging in again to see if the error persists.
Step 3: Uninstall and Reinstall the Xbox App
If the error remains unresolved, another effective method is to uninstall and reinstall the Xbox app:
- Open the Start Menu, search for Xbox, and right-click on the app.
- Select Uninstall and confirm the action.
- Once uninstalled, head to the Microsoft Store, search for Xbox, and proceed to download and install it again.
After reinstallation, attempt to log in to your account once more to check if the issue is fixed.
Step 4: Use Command Prompt to Reset Network Settings
If you are still facing the login error, resetting your network settings may help. Here’s how to do this using Command Prompt:
- Press the Windows key, type CMD, and right-click on Command Prompt. Select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /flushdns - Next, type the following command to reset the network settings and hit Enter:
netsh winsock reset
After running these commands, restart your computer to apply the changes. Once your device is back on, try logging into the Xbox app again.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth login experience with the Xbox app:
- Ensure that your Windows operating system is up to date by checking for any pending updates in the Settings under Update & Security.
- Verify your Xbox account credentials by logging in through a web browser to ensure there are no issues with your account itself.
- If you are using a Microsoft account, double-check for any sign-in issues or security alerts that may require your attention.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the Xbox App Login Error 401 effectively. Each method outlined helps address potential causes of the error, from connectivity issues to application settings. If you continue to encounter problems, consider seeking further assistance from Xbox support or community forums.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Xbox App Login Error 401?
The Xbox App Login Error 401 typically indicates that there is a problem with your account authentication. This could be due to incorrect credentials, connectivity issues, or settings within the app itself.
Can a VPN cause login issues with the Xbox app?
Yes, using a VPN can interfere with the Xbox app’s ability to connect to Microsoft servers, leading to login errors. Disabling your VPN or proxy settings may help resolve the issue.
What should I do if the error persists after following these steps?
If the error continues after trying all suggested methods, consider contacting Xbox Support for further troubleshooting assistance, or checking online forums for similar experiences and solutions.