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Account - Trouble Logging In

General troubleshooting guide for UWL users who cannot log into their accounts, covering password reset, browser cache clearing, private browsing, and account unlock steps for both general and Okta lockouts.

If you are having trouble logging into your UWL account, try the steps below in order. Most login issues are resolved by step 1 or 2.

Step 1: Reset Your Password (Try This First)

The most common cause of login issues is an incorrect or expired password. Use the Forgot Password option on the login screen — see Reset Password on the Login Screen (opens in new tab). It's important to have an alternate email address set up in Okta (opens in new tab) for this to work. Before attempting to log back in, avoid using browser-saved or autofill passwords, and make sure you write down your new password.

Step 2: Clear Your Browser's Cache, Cookies, and Browsing History

Your browser may be storing outdated login information that interferes with signing in. See Clearing Cache, Cookies, and Browsing History (opens in new tab) for step-by-step instructions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. After clearing, try logging in again.

Step 3: Try a Private or Incognito Window

A private or incognito window gives you a completely fresh browser session, bypassing any cached data or saved passwords that might be causing the issue. See How to Browse in Private (opens in new tab). You can also try a different web browser (opens in new tab) entirely.

Step 4: Check If Your Account Is Locked

There are two types of account lockouts — make sure you identify which one applies to you, as they have different solutions:

General account lockout: Caused by too many incorrect password attempts when accessing WINGS, Canvas, email, or UWL-Eagle WiFi. A general lockout prevents you from logging into anything UWL-related, including campus computers and WiFi. If you cannot access any UWL service, call the Help Desk at 608-785-8774. See How to Unlock Your Account for more information.

None of These Worked?

Contact the Eagle Help Desk (opens in new tab) — we can help diagnose the issue and get you back in. Reach us at 608-785-8774 or visit us in Wing 103.



Keywords:
trouble logging in, can't log in, login problem, password reset, account locked, Okta lockout, general lockout, clear cache, clear cookies, incognito window, private browsing, WINGS, Canvas, email, UWL-Eagle WiFi, authentication failure, NetID, account unlock, Eagle Help Desk 
Doc ID:
93640
Owned by:
David H. in UW-La Crosse
Created:
2019-08-07
Updated:
2026-02-26
Sites:
UW-La Crosse