Seeing an error popup in Shift that mentions there's a problem communicating with the Shift servers? This error message is an indication that either your computer, email, or network is preventing communication between your Shift application and Shift's servers. This article will walk through some quick steps you can take to help get synced up again!
Step 1. Try logging into Shift using a different email
If there have been any recent changes to your email's third-party app or security settings, this may prevent Shift on your computer from properly communicating with Shift's servers, and prevent you from logging in. This is particularly common for work emails (i.e. paid domains, Google Workspaces, and Office 365 emails). Check with your network/email administrator for more information if possible.
To test, try logging into Shift with a different email, such as a personal email like @gmail.com or @hotmail.com. If you can log in, this suggests there's a setting on your other email that prevents you from logging into Shift. If you're unable to change these email settings or don't know how our support team can always help transfer your Shift subscription over to a personal email. Head here for more information!
Step 2. Check any third-party security or software programs you have installed (and temporarily disable them)
If Step 1, above, is unsuccessful and you're unable to log into Shift even when using a different email, it's an indicator that something on your computer or network is blocking traffic to Shift's sites and servers. In this case, you'll want to check any third-party software installed on your computer (e.g. antivirus, security, traffic blockers, etc.). Some security software programs have been known to interrupt your computer's ability to establish a connection to Shift's server. If you have a third-party security program on your computer, make sure you've updated it to the latest version, and check the program's support documentation on how to enable connectivity with other apps like Shift. You may also need to try temporarily disabling the security software to see if that's what's causing the error.
In addition, ensure Shift has connectivity enabled to the following Shift sites:
- profile.shiftapis.com
- websocket.shiftapis.com
- Port 443 will need to be open for HTTPS
Step 3a. Check your computer's firewall settings (Mac)
If turning off your security software doesn't work, check your firewall settings. On your Mac, you may need to configure the built-in firewall to allow access to some services and apps like Shift. You can configure your Mac's firewall settings anytime. Follow this Apple guide by OS to learn how.
Step 3b. Check your computer's firewall settings (Windows)
If turning off your security software doesn't work, check your firewall settings. On your PC, you may need to configure the built-in firewall to allow access to some services and apps like Shift. You can configure your PC's firewall settings anytime. Follow this Microsoft guide to learn how.