The Xbox error 0x87dd0003 code is a common issue that prevents players from signing into their Xbox Live accounts on Xbox consoles or the Xbox app on Windows PCs. This error occurs due to problems with the Xbox Identity Provider service. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve this error.
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Introduction
The 0x87dd0003 error typically appears with the message “Sorry, we can’t sign you in right now. Give it another try later”. This prevents you from accessing Xbox Live features like playing online, chatting with friends, or buying content from the Xbox Store.
This error is often caused by problems communicating with the Xbox Identity Provider service, which handles account authentication. Issues on Xbox’s servers, network problems, incorrectly configured settings, or corrupted data can trigger this error.
Don’t worry – in most cases, this error can be fixed with some basic troubleshooting. Here are the top 15 solutions to resolve the 0x87dd0003 error on your Xbox console or Windows PC.
1. Check Xbox Status Page
The first step is to check the Xbox status page at support.xbox.com/xbox-live-status. This page tracks any problems or ongoing maintenance with Xbox Live services.
If you see an alert for the Identity Provider, that means Xbox is aware of an issue on their end. The only fix is to wait for Xbox to resolve the problem. Keep checking the status page for updates.
2. Update or Reinstall Xbox Identity Provider
Issues with the Xbox Identity Provider app itself can also trigger the 0x87dd0003 error.
On Windows 10/11 PCs, make sure you have the latest version of this app installed:
- Open the Microsoft Store app
- Search for Xbox Identity Provider
- If any updates are available, install them
- If it’s not installed, install the app
- Alternatively, you can completely uninstall and reinstall the app
On Xbox consoles, you may need to factory reset your device to reinstall the identity provider.
Back up your data first, then:
- Go to Settings > System > Console info
- Select “Reset console”
- Choose the “Reset and keep my games & apps” option
This will reinstall the operating system and Xbox services like the identity provider.
3. Restart Xbox Console
An easy fix is to simply restart your Xbox. This clears any temporary glitches that may be causing the 0x87dd0003 error.
To restart:
- Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide
- Select System > Settings > General > Shut down console
- Restart the Xbox after shut down is complete
Also consider unplugging the power cord from the console for 30 seconds before plugging it back in. This performs a “hard reboot” which can resolve many issues.
4. Check Internet Connection
Network connectivity issues are a common cause of the 0x87dd0003 error.
There are a few things to check on your internet connection:
- Reset your router and modems (unplug them for 30 seconds)
- Make sure you have a stable, high-speed internet connection
- Test your network speed at speedtest.net
- Check for packet loss at pingtest.net
- Try using a wired connection instead of WiFi
- If on WiFi, move closer to the router or access point
Connection problems can prevent proper communication with the Xbox servers. Fixing network issues may resolve the error.
5. Clear the Xbox Console Cache
Over time, corrupted data in the Xbox cache can cause issues. Clearing the cache forces your Xbox to redownload fresh data and can fix problems like 0x87dd0003.
To clear the cache:
- Go to Settings > Devices & connections > Blu-ray
- Select Persistent storage > Clear persistent storage
- Select Reset and clear
This will wipe the Blu-ray cache along with other cached Xbox data. After clearing, restart your console.
6. Check Time and Region Settings
In some cases, the 0x87dd0003 error may occur if your Xbox region or time zone is set incorrectly.
Check these settings under System > Settings > General > Language & location. Make sure:
- Time zone is set properly for your geographic location
- Location is set to your country
Incorrect settings here can mess with authentication, so set them accurately. Restart after changing.
7. Update or Reinstall the Xbox App
On Windows 10/11, issues with the Xbox app can also cause the 0x87dd0003 error.
To fix this:
- Open the Microsoft Store
- Go to Updates and check for any available updates
- Install updates or reinstall the app entirely
Also try logging out and back into the Xbox app after updates. This ensures new data is synced.
8. Run SFC and DISM Tools
Corrupted system files associated with Xbox services may trigger the 0x87dd0003 error on Windows PCs. You can scan for issues using the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools.
To run these commands:
- Open an admin Command Prompt
- Run
SFC /scannowto scan system files - Run
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthto repair issues
This scans and replaces corrupted Windows files. Restart your PC after running these commands.
9. Check for Pending Windows and Xbox Updates
Make sure your Xbox console and Windows PC are fully updated:
- On Xbox, go to Settings > System > Updates to install latest updates
- On Windows, check for Windows Updates and install them
- Install latest drivers for your hardware and graphics card
Updates often contain fixes for bugs that can cause 0x87dd0003 errors. Keep your systems updated.
10. Check for DNS Server Issues
Network issues with your DNS server can prevent connecting to Xbox Live. To check:
- Open Command Prompt and run
ipconfig /flushdns - This flushes the DNS cache
- Run
ipconfig /registerdnsto refresh DNS registration - Try switching to Google DNS servers at 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
DNS issues can affect connectivity. Flushing DNS may help resolve them.
11. Disconnect Modem and Go Offline
If your NAT type is Blocked or Strict, it can interfere with Xbox Live access and cause 0x87dd0003.
To reset this:
- Disconnect your modem for 5 minutes
- While disconnected, set your Xbox to offline mode
- After 5 minutes, reconnect modem and set Xbox back online
This will force renegotiation of NAT and often resolves restrictions.
12. Check Account Status
In rare cases, the 0x87dd0003 error may indicate your Xbox Live account is suspended or banned. This prevents logging in.
To check status and fix account issues:
- Visit account.microsoft.com and sign in
- Go to Order History and check for any active suspensions
- If suspended, you can submit an appeal
- Alternatively, create a new Xbox/Microsoft account
Banned or suspended accounts have to be restored before you can play online.
13. Try Signing In on Different Account
As a test, attempt to sign in to Xbox Live using a different profile or account:
- Add a new user profile on your Xbox console
- Sign in to a different Microsoft account on Xbox app (Windows)
- See if the 0x87dd0003 error occurs on other accounts
If the error only occurs on your main profile, your account may be the issue. Otherwise, it’s likely a general connectivity problem.
14. Factory Reset Xbox
If you’ve tried the other troubleshooting steps, a factory reset may be necessary to resolve persistent 0x87dd0003 errors.
This will erase all data, so make sure to backup your games, profiles, and settings first. Then:
- Go to Settings > System > Console info > Reset console
- Choose Reset and remove everything – this fully resets the console to factory defaults.
- Set up your Xbox again after the reset completes.
Factory reset should resolve any software issues causing the problem.
15. Contact Xbox Support
If all else fails, reach out to Xbox Support for further help:
- On Twitter @XboxSupport
- Request a callback at support.xbox.com
- Start a chat session with an agent
- Call support phone numbers for your region
Provide details on the troubleshooting steps you’ve tried. Support can further diagnose the issue and provide fixes.
Conclusion
The Xbox 0x87dd0003 error is common but can be resolved in most cases through troubleshooting. Issues with Xbox services, network connections, system files, or account problems are the main culprits.
Follow the solutions above like checking Xbox status, updating the Xbox app, clearing cache, factory resetting, and contacting support. With the right fixes, you should be able to sign back into Xbox Live and enjoy gaming online.
Troubleshooting Xbox Error 0x87dd0003 FAQs
Q: Why does the 0x87dd0003 error occur?
A: It’s typically caused by issues communicating with the Xbox Identity Provider service, which handles account authentication. Server problems, network errors, corrupted files, or incorrect settings can prevent connecting to this service.
Q: Will Xbox error 0x87dd0003 prevent online play?
A: Yes, since you can’t sign into your Xbox Live account, it will block all online features like multiplayer gaming, chatting, and accessing the store.
Q: Does 0x87dd0003 happen on Xbox consoles only?
A: No, it also occurs frequently on the Xbox app for Windows when trying to sign in. The solutions are the same for both platforms.
Q: Is there an easy first step to resolve 0x87dd0003?
A: Yes, first check the Xbox status page at support.xbox.com for any service alerts related to account authentication or sign-in issues.
Q: How can I prevent this error in the future?
A: Keep your Xbox console and related apps updated. Use a wired network connection for stability. Clear the cache periodically. And make sure your Microsoft account is in good standing. This helps avoid many issues.