Single Sign-On - Stale Request

Summary

This guide explains the common causes of the "Single Sign-On - Stale Request" error when logging into FAU services (like Canvas, Zoom, or MyFAU) and provides a step-by-step process to resolve it.

Body

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Please follow these steps in order. The most common cause is solved in Step 2.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate

Before clearing any data, try these simple actions first.

  • Close All Tabs: Completely close all browser tabs and windows, then open a fresh window.
  • Go Directly to the Site: Do not use old bookmarks or links from your history. Navigate directly to the service you need (e.g., canvas.fau.edu or fau.zoom.us).
  • Avoid the Back Button: During the login process, do not use your browser's "back" button, as this can invalidate the login attempt.

Step 2: Clear Your Browser's Cache and Cookies (Most Common Fix)

Outdated data stored in your browser is the number one cause of this error.

  • Go to your browser's Settings menu.
  • Find the section for History or Privacy and security.
  • Locate the option to Clear Browse data.
  • Select to clear "Cookies and other site data" and "Cached images and files" for the time range of "All time".
  • After clearing the data, close and reopen your browser before trying to log in again.

Step 3: Try a Different Web Browser

This helps determine if the issue is specific to one browser's settings or extensions. If you are using Chrome, try logging in with a different browser like Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge.

Step 4: Check Your Network Connection

Unstable or highly restrictive networks can interfere with the login process.

  • Public Networks: Networks at hotels, airports, or coffee shops can sometimes cause this error. Try a different network if possible.
  • Use a VPN: Connecting to the FAU VPN can often bypass network issues by creating a more stable and direct connection.

Step 5: The Last Resort - Reset Your Browser

If none of the above steps work, you can reset your browser to its default settings.

Details

Details

Article ID: 133474
Created
Tue 6/1/21 8:46 AM
Modified
Thu 6/12/25 3:01 PM