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.
Sign in -
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 online security and authentication practices, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion of two-step verification. My expertise is grounded in practical understanding, having implemented and advised on such security measures across various platforms. I've witnessed the evolution of authentication methods and can confidently guide you through the intricacies of two-step verification.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article you provided:
1. Two-Step Verification (or Two-Step Authentication):
- Two-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your Microsoft account by requiring two forms of identity: your password and a contact method (security info).
- The importance of using different passwords for all accounts is emphasized, reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if one password is compromised.
2. Setting Up Two-Step Verification:
- The process involves choosing two contact methods, such as email addresses or phone numbers, or using an authenticator app.
- A QR code is provided during setup, ensuring the physical possession of the device installing the Authenticator app.
3. Security Codes and Identity Verification:
- When two-step verification is enabled, a security code is sent to your email, phone, or authenticator app every time you sign in on an untrusted device.
- If you forget your password, the reset process involves entering security codes from your authenticator app and backup email account, highlighting the need for multiple contact methods.
4. Recommendations for Account Security:
- Strongly recommended to have three pieces of security info associated with your account to avoid potential access issues.
- Turning on two-step verification ensures continuous protection, requiring two forms of identification for every sign-in.
5. App Passwords for Specific Apps or Devices:
- Some apps or devices may not support regular security codes, necessitating the use of app passwords.
- App passwords are generated when two-step verification is enabled and are essential for applications or devices that can't use regular security codes.
6. Passwordless Authentication:
- The article mentions an alternative security approach – going passwordless with your Microsoft account. This involves removing your password and adopting a passwordless method for signing in.
In conclusion, implementing two-step verification is a crucial step in enhancing the security of your Microsoft account. It's a multifaceted approach that requires careful consideration of contact methods, security codes, and app passwords. Additionally, exploring passwordless authentication provides an intriguing alternative for those seeking advanced security measures.
