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How to solve Apple ID Verification Error in Mac

An issue that has been faced by quite a number of Apple users is the ID verification error. So, what is it? In case of an issue, the error message “verification failed there was an error connecting to Apple ID server” usually pops up. Generally, this occurs when the user is trying to access services such as App Store, iCloud, iTunes, etc. As the error message itself implies, it could be mostly related to some issue with the Apple ID, although this need not always be the case. There can be many potential causes for the same error. Some of the probable causes and solutions are briefly explained below.

Sign out of Apple ID

One of the most common practices, when this error message is displayed is to sign out of your Apple ID and then sign in again. Temporary bugs in the verification process can be resolved by this method.
To do this,

  1. Open System preferences > Apple ID.
  2. Select the Overview tab.
  3. Click on the Sign Out button.
  4. If any apps are asking to save data, choose to Keep a Copy.
  5. Now, click Sign In.

Check Apple Servers

This is one of the probable causes completely outside the user’s sphere of control – the Apple servers may be down. This could mean various issues, including the verification error. You can check the status on Apple’s system status page. Ensure that all the services that you need are green. If there are any issues, Apple usually provides an explanation within a clickable link.

Check your Wi-Fi Connection

Yet another common reason for this error message to pop up is when your Wi-Fi connection has been cut or if the internet is unstable. Rebooting the router may sometimes solve the issue. You can also try testing the internet speed at various websites.

Turn VPN OFF

VPNs or Virtual Private Networks are commonly used today by a lot of people to protect internet privacy. But this may sometimes cause issues while updating or resetting Apple ID settings or passwords. Hence, it is better to try with the VPN turned off.
You can check the VPN status in your Mac by launching System Preferences and opening Network.
Network location under System Preferences on macOS

Change the Apple ID password

Since resetting the password would force the system to start over again, changing the password may solve the authentication issue. To reset the Apple ID password from your Mac,

  1. Go to System Preferences > Apple ID.
  2. Open Password & Security.
  3. Click on Change password.
  4. Enter your MacBook’s password.
  5. Type in the new Apple ID password, confirm it and click Change.

Set date and time to automatic

One of the most common reasons for the aforementioned error to pop up is if there is some error in date and time. Change the date & time settings to automatic and check if the error still persists. To change this on your Mac,

  1. Go to System preferences > Date & Time.
  2. Check the Set date and time automatically box.

Configuring Date & Time Settings in Mac

Changing the Time Format

You can also try changing the time setting to the 24-hour clock. It may resolve the issue in some cases. For this,

  1. Go to System preferences > Language and Region.
  2. Check the box to Time format: 24-Hour Time.

Configuring Language & Region Settings in Mac

Check for Updates and Restart

Check if there are any pending OS updates. You can do this by opening System Preferences and selecting Software Update. If you have any pending updates, click Download and Install.
If your MacBook is fully up to date, try restarting the device.

Software update location under System Preferences on macOS

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