Verify another way

Question

Unable to sign into my Outlook account on desktop computer.

Get message Verify another way, which does not send me a link.

Answer 1

Use another verification/sign-in method and update the security info so that Outlook can complete the “Verify another way” step.

Try these steps in order:

1. Check for “Sign in another way”
   • On the verification screen, look for a Sign in another way link.
   • If available, select it and choose a different method (e.g., SMS, alternate email, security key, or Microsoft Authenticator) to complete sign-in.
   • After signing in, go to your security settings and add/update methods so future prompts can be completed.
2. Use InPrivate/Incognito and a different browser
   • Open a private browsing window (for example, Ctrl+Shift+P in Microsoft Edge) and try signing in again.
   • This helps if the problem is caused by cookies, cached sessions, or being signed into another Microsoft account.
3. If the verification code goes to another Microsoft email
   • If the alternate email is another Outlook/Hotmail/Live/MSN account, use privacy mode so both accounts can stay signed in:
     1. In a privacy window, sign in to the account that is asking for verification.
     2. When prompted for the code, leave that window open.
     3. Open a second privacy window and sign in to the alternate email account.
     4. Get the verification message and copy the code.
     5. Return to the first window and enter the code.
4. If the listed phone/email is wrong or inaccessible
   • On the “Verify your identity” screen, select I don't have any of these (if shown) and follow the prompts to replace the security information.
   • Be aware that replacing all existing security info can put the account into a restricted state for up to 30 days while ownership is verified.
5. If no other method is available or codes never arrive
   • Go to the Security basics or Advanced security options pages (from another device where sign-in still works, if possible) and:
     • Select Update info or Add a new way to sign in or verify.
     • Add a working phone number, email, or another method.
   • If still unable to receive codes, use the sign-in helper or account recovery and follow the on-screen steps. Support agents cannot send codes or change security details on the account.

If the account is currently signed in on another device (phone, another PC), change the sign-in preferences and add more verification methods from there so desktop sign-in can succeed.

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References:

• Sign in using two-step verification or security info
• How to help keep your Microsoft account secure
• Verifying your identity when signing in
• Common problems with two-step verification for a work or school account
• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues
• Why can't I log in to my Outlook account? - Microsoft Q&A
• I need to speak with a real person and it seems impossible. - Microsoft Q&A
• Please confirm my e mail address as <removed PII>@outlook.com - Microsoft Q&A