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Logon to MSN from different Computers with a FIDO2 key

M ike 0 Reputation points
2026-05-19T18:18:15.6433333+00:00

I set my surface pro running win 10 to log in with my FIDO2 key, which it does, however if I then use the FIDO key on my PC, it won't login to msn, nor will it let me use the key, to set up 2fa.

I must admit I am new to using this key and thought that I could use the key on multiple devices to access common accounts.

An online search shows this:

"Thetis FIDO2 Security Key Usage

Multiple Account Registration

One Thetis FIDO2 Security Key can be registered to multiple accounts across various services that support FIDO2 and Passkey standards. This feature allows users to manage several accounts securely with a single key, simplifying the authentication process.

Benefits of Using One Key for Multiple Accounts

  • Convenience: Users can access different accounts without needing multiple keys.
  • Enhanced Security: Reduces the risk of losing multiple keys and simplifies account management.
  • Passwordless Authentication: Streamlines the login process by eliminating the need to remember numerous passwords.

In summary, a single Thetis FIDO2 Security Key can effectively manage multiple accounts, making it a practical choice for users looking to enhance their online security."

So why does MSN say it cannot, or am I doing this wrong

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Authenticator
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  1. AI answer

    2026-05-19T18:18:50.0566667+00:00

    A single FIDO2 security key can be used on multiple devices, but it must be registered for the specific Microsoft account and scenario where it is used. The key itself is reusable; the registration and configuration are per account and per service.

    Key points relevant to this scenario:

    1. FIDO2 keys are tied to accounts, not devices
      • A FIDO2 security key can be registered to multiple accounts and used across different supported devices and browsers.
      • For Microsoft work/school accounts, the key must be registered as a verification method for that account, and the admin must have enabled FIDO2/passwordless sign-in.
      • For Microsoft accounts (consumer), the key must be added via the account’s security settings before it can be used to sign in on any device.
    2. Device and configuration requirements
      • To use a FIDO2 key for Windows sign-in (for example, on Surface Pro or another PC), the device must meet the Windows and Microsoft Entra (if work/school) requirements and be configured for FIDO2 sign-in.
      • For Windows sign-in with FIDO2 keys in an Entra environment, Windows 10 version 1809 or later is required, with best experience on 1903 or higher, and devices must be properly joined and configured for passwordless security key sign-in.
    3. Using the same key on another PC
      • If the PC is not configured for FIDO2 sign-in (for example, no FIDO2 security key sign-in method enabled, or not meeting the Entra/Windows requirements), the key will not be accepted for Windows logon.
      • For web sign-in (such as MSN via browser), the Microsoft account must have the FIDO2 security key registered as a sign-in method. If that registration is not completed, MSN will not allow using the key for sign-in or for setting up 2FA.
    4. Managing and using the key
      • On Windows 10, security key management is done via Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > Security Key > Manage, where PIN/biometrics can be set or changed.
      • For work/school accounts, the key must be registered as a verification method after the admin has enabled FIDO2 security keys and the device/browser requirements are met.

    In practice, to use the same FIDO2 key on both Surface Pro and PC for the same Microsoft account:

    • Ensure the Microsoft account has the FIDO2 key registered as a sign-in method in its security settings.
    • Ensure each Windows device is configured and supported for FIDO2 security key sign-in if using it at the Windows logon screen.
    • Use a supported browser and OS version when signing in to MSN or other Microsoft services with the key.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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