Microsoft Security Key

Question

I just bought a new HP computer. I have signed in with my MSN account. It now wants a USB security code. I do not have a security USB. It the ask me to verify if I am a robot and nothing came up to verify.

I am unable to login to my computer at all.

It also said I could use the last 4 of my Phone which it showed the last two digits I entered the correct number and it says they cannot use that method.

I am at a loss for any other ideas.

Please let me know where I can go from here.

Thank you!

Answer 1

This sign-in flow is asking for a passkey or another verification method tied to the Microsoft account. If the USB security key option appears but no physical key exists, use another sign-in method that is already registered on the account.

Try this in order:

1. On the sign-in screen, look for Sign in another way or a similar option.
2. If a phone number or alternate email is offered, choose that method instead of the USB security key.
3. If the phone option appears but is rejected, try a different verification method connected to the account.
4. If no working method is available, select I don’t have any of these at the identity verification prompt and follow the steps to replace the security info.
5. If access has been lost to all security info, the account security info can still be replaced, but there is a 30-day wait before sign-in is allowed again.

If verification codes are not arriving:

1. Go to the Microsoft account Security basics page and select Update info.
2. Choose a method that works, or choose I don’t have any of these to replace the security info.
3. If the alternate verification email is another Microsoft account such as Outlook.com, Hotmail.com, Live.com, or MSN.com, use two private/incognito browser windows so both accounts stay signed in at the same time while retrieving the code.

If the account is being blocked with messages like Try another verification method:

1. Try another verification method on the account.
2. Switch networks, such as Wi‑Fi to mobile data or a different Wi‑Fi network.
3. Wait 24 hours before trying again. Repeated attempts can extend the block. If needed, wait longer, up to 1 week.
4. Use the sign-in helper: Start

If the account was locked and the sign-in page does not show Next, use the aka.ms/ link shown on that screen to submit the reinstatement form. After submission, wait for the Microsoft Online Safety review by email and do not submit repeated requests.

Important limits:

• Support agents cannot send verification codes.
• Support agents cannot access or change account details.
• Do not change all security info at the same time unless necessary, because the account may be restricted for 30 days.

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References:

• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues
• Microsoft account has been locked
• Cannot access any Microsoft product - Microsoft Q&A