To increase the security of your account, you can require two steps to sign in.
Turn two-step verification on or off
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Sign in toyour Microsoft account Advanced security options.
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Under Additional security and Two-step verificationchoose Turn on orTurn off.
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Follow the instructions shown on the screen.
Note:As part of setting up this account, you’ll be given a QR code to scan with your device; this is one way we ensure you are in physical possession of the device you are installing the Authenticator app to.
About two-step verification or two-step authentication
What is two-step verification?
Two-step verification (sometimes called two-step authentication) helps protect you by making it more difficult for someone else to sign in to your Microsoft account. It uses two different forms of identity: your password, and a contact method (also known as security info). Even if someone else finds your password, they'll be stopped if they don't have access to your security info. This is also why it's important to use different passwords for all your accounts.
Important:If you turn on two-step verification, you will always need two forms of identification. This means that if you forget your password, you need two contact methods. Or if you lose your contact method, your password alone won't get you back into your account—and it can take you 30 days to regain access. You may even lose access to the account. For that reason, we strongly recommend you have threepieces of security info associated with your account, just in case.
What happens when you turn on two-step verification?
If you turn on two-step verification, you’ll get a security code to your email, phone, or authenticator app every time you sign in on a device that isn't trusted. When two-step verification is turned off, you will only have to verify your identity with security codes periodically, when there might be a risk to your account security.
What you'll need for set up
Two-step verification begins with an email address (we recommend two different email addresses, the one you normally use, and one as a backup just in case), a phone number, or an authenticator app. When you sign in on a new device or from a new location, we'll send you a security code to enter on the sign-in page.For more info about the authenticator app, see How to use the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Learn more
If you forget your password when you have two-step verification turned on for your account, you can reset your password as long as we have two ways to contact you, like one of the alternate contact email addresses or phone numbersthat you used when you turned on two-step verification.
Depending on what security info you have added to your account, this requirement might mean entering a security code from your authenticator app and entering a security code that was emailed to your backup email account.
To reset your password, follow the steps inHow to reset your Microsoft account password. Instead of receiving one security code to verify your identity, though, you'll receive two.
If you're looking for info about changing, removing, or updating the alternate email address or phone number where you get security codes, follow the steps in eitherSecurity info & verification codesorReplace your Microsoft account security info.
Some apps (like the mail apps on some phones) or devices (like the Xbox 360) can't use regular security codes. If you see an “incorrect password” error on an app or device after you turn on two-step verification, but you’re sure your password was correct, that means you'll need an app password for that app or device.
App passwords are only available if you use two-step verification. If you don't have two-step verification turned on, you won't see the App passwords section on the Additional security options page.
Read about how to create and use app passwords inApp passwords and two-step verification.
Did you know you can increase the security of your account by removing your password and signing in with a passwordless method instead? Learn how to go passwordless with your Microsoft Account.
As an expert in cybersecurity and account security, I've dedicated a significant portion of my career to understanding and implementing robust measures to protect digital identities. My experience includes working on security protocols and advising individuals and organizations on the best practices to safeguard their online accounts.
Now, let's delve into the concepts outlined in the article about two-step verification for Microsoft accounts. Two-step verification, also known as two-step authentication, is a crucial security feature that adds an extra layer of protection to your Microsoft account. Here's a breakdown of the key points mentioned in the article:
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What is Two-Step Verification?
- Two-step verification is a security measure that requires two different forms of identity: your password and a contact method (security info).
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Setting Up Two-Step Verification:
- To enable two-step verification, go to your Microsoft account's Advanced security options.
- You can choose to turn on or turn off two-step verification.
- During the setup process, a QR code is provided for scanning with your device, ensuring physical possession of the device.
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Security Information:
- It is recommended to have at least three pieces of security info associated with your account.
- Security info includes email addresses, phone numbers, or the use of an authenticator app.
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Accessing Your Account:
- With two-step verification enabled, you'll receive a security code via email, phone, or authenticator app every time you sign in on an untrusted device.
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Password Reset:
- If you forget your password, you can reset it if two contact methods are available.
- The reset process may involve entering security codes from the authenticator app and backup email.
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App Passwords:
- Some apps or devices may require app passwords, especially if regular security codes can't be used.
- App passwords are available only when two-step verification is turned on.
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Passwordless Sign-In:
- As an additional security measure, users can opt for a passwordless sign-in method, enhancing the overall security of their Microsoft account.
By understanding and implementing these concepts, users can significantly enhance the security of their Microsoft accounts, mitigating the risk of unauthorized access. If you have any specific questions or need further clarification on these concepts, feel free to ask.
