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When asked for a passcode on the Outlook sign in page What do I enter?

Chris Harris 0 Reputation points
2026-05-22T14:06:41.2433333+00:00

I am told to provide a 6 digit passkey when signing in Yet I am also told it is not visible as it is machine generated.

How do I answer the request for a passcode then?

Outlook | Web | Outlook.com | Account management, security, and privacy

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  1. Victor1-V 9,555 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-05-23T03:17:04.9+00:00

    Hello Chris Harris,

    I understand that Outlook is asking for a 6-digit code, but you are not seeing where to get it. Please note that this is a user-to-user forum, so contributors cannot view or change your account sign-in methods but can help narrow down where the code should come from.

    The Q&A Assist answer is correct that the code is not something you create manually. If you have not had a chance to try it yet, please check the authentication method already connected to your Microsoft account, such as Microsoft Authenticator, Outlook mobile, SMS, or recovery email.

    I would also like to add one clarification: a passkey and a 6-digit passcode are not always the same. A passkey is usually approved from a trusted device, while a 6-digit passcode is usually shown in an authentication app, Outlook mobile sign-in request, text message, or email.

    If no code appears anywhere, please try this:

    1. On the sign-in page, select "Other ways to sign in" or a similar option, if it is shown.
    2. Choose another verification method that you still have access to, such as recovery email, phone, Microsoft Authenticator, or Outlook mobile.
    3. If you are already signed in on another device, go to your Microsoft account security page and review the sign-in methods under Advanced security options.

    For reference, Outlook mobile can be used to receive sign-in requests or one-time passcodes, and those codes refresh regularly. Microsoft account two-step verification can also use an email address, phone number, or authenticator app as the verification method.

    I hope this helps clarify what the sign-in page is asking for.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-05-22T14:06:53.6333333+00:00

    The 6-digit passcode is generated by an approved authentication method linked to the account. Nothing is manually invented; the code must be read from the app or method that is configured.

    Depending on how sign-in is set up, the 6-digit code typically comes from one of these:

    1. Microsoft Authenticator or another TOTP app
      • Open the Microsoft Authenticator app (or other authenticator app).
      • Tap the account name.
      • Use the 6‑digit One-time password code shown there and enter it on the Outlook sign-in page.
      • Codes refresh every 30 seconds; if the timer is low, wait for it to refresh before entering.
    2. Outlook mobile one-time passcode (if configured)
      • On the sign-in page, choose Use a code or similar option.
      • On the phone, open the Outlook app → tap the Home icon → Settings (gear) → Accounts → select the account → Sign-in requests.
      • Copy the 6‑digit code shown and paste it into the sign-in page. Codes refresh every 30 seconds.
    3. SMS or email verification code (if that method is being used)
      • If the page says a code was sent by text or email, open the corresponding SMS or email inbox and use the 6‑digit code from that message.

    If no code is visible in any app or message, sign-in is likely expecting a code from a method that is not fully set up or not accessible. In that case, use another verification method already configured (such as backup email) or follow the account recovery or security options flow at the Microsoft account security page to review and update sign-in methods.

    References:

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

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