Cannot log into out look

Question

I am constantly being asked to sign in and asked for a verification code that doesn't get sent. I'm in a constant sign in loop.

Answer 1

Hi, I'm John! I will help you with this.

To help narrow down the issue:

1. Is this happening in Outlook web? If so, may I know which browser?
2. Have you already checked your Junk/Spam and Deleted folders?
3. Do you still have access to the phone number or email Microsoft is trying to send the code to?

If you have two or more email aliases connected to your Microsoft account, please check which one the code is being sent to. Be sure to also check your Junk or Spam folder, just in case it ended up there. For more steps, you can also visit: "Troubleshooting verification code issues" https://support.microsoft.com/account-billing/troubleshooting-verification-code-issues-409090c4-92b5-42b9-8ae6-bcc97e62fc48

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Click "Add comment" to let me know.

Answer 2

Follow these steps to break the sign-in/verification loop and get the code working again:

1. Check for temporary blocking or unusual activity

• Excessive or repetitive requests for verification codes can cause Microsoft to temporarily block sending new codes.
• If there has been unusual activity or heavy compromised traffic from the region, codes may be delayed or not delivered until the block automatically clears.
• Wait a period of time (for example, until the next day) before repeatedly requesting new codes.

2. Verify the phone/email used for codes

• Make sure the phone number or email shown on the verification screen is actually correct (only partial info is shown for security).
• If the phone number or email is wrong or no longer accessible, sign in to the Security basics page or Security info page (when possible) and select Update info, then either:
  • Choose a method that still works, or
  • Choose I don't have any of these to replace the security info.

3. Fix issues with SMS/text codes

• Ensure the phone does not block texts from unknown numbers. If it does, change the phone settings, then choose I don't have a code and request a new one.
• Check that the SMS inbox is not full and that the messaging app is working correctly.
• VOIP numbers cannot be used for verification codes; use a mobile phone number instead.
• If in a region where Microsoft SMS services are limited or temporarily unavailable, try again later or use an alternate verification method (email or another factor) if offered.

4. Fix issues with email verification codes

• Check the junk/spam folder for a message from @accountprotection.microsoft.com and use the code in that email.
• Mark @accountprotection.microsoft.com as a trusted sender so future codes arrive in the inbox.

5. Use a private/incognito browser session

• Open a new InPrivate/Incognito window in the browser.
• Go to the Outlook.com sign-in page and sign in again.
• When prompted for a code, request it once and wait for delivery instead of repeatedly resending.
• If using one Microsoft account to verify another (for example, codes going to an Outlook/Hotmail/Live/MSN address), keep the original sign-in page open, then open a second private window to sign in to the email account that receives the code, copy the code, and return to the first window to enter it.

6. Try a different browser, device, or network

• If the loop continues, try:
  • Another browser (for example, Edge instead of Chrome), or
  • Another device (PC/phone), or
  • Another network (mobile data instead of Wi‑Fi).
• This helps bypass cached sessions or network-related blocking.

7. If still locked in a loop

• If none of the above works and verification codes still do not arrive, complete the Microsoft account recovery process using the recovery form and any backup email/phone that still works.
• Avoid repeatedly resubmitting the form or requesting too many codes in a short period, as this can extend the block.

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References:

• Common problems with two-step verification for a work or school account
• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues