Can't sign in to your Microsoft account on Windows
Try using a PIN instead of a password if you have one set up. If that doesn't work, reset your Microsoft password at account.live.com/password/reset from another device, then use the new password to sign in.
Microsoft account sign-in issues happen because the password changed on another device, 2FA codes aren't getting through, or the PIN was forgotten. Microsoft accounts let you use either a password or a PIN to sign in locally. The PIN works when the password doesn't. If the PIN is also forgotten, you can reset the password online and sign in with that instead.
- ✓Try using a PIN instead of password if you've set one up. PIN works locally on Windows
- ✓Check Caps Lock isn't turned on when typing the password
- ✓Use account.live.com/password/reset from another device to reset your password
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting to set up a PIN. PINs work locally on Windows even when the online system is down
- Not saving recovery codes when 2FA was first enabled. These are your backup if the phone is gone
Signs you need professional help
- Account recovery is taking too long and you need to use Windows now Windows needs to be reinstalled because sign-in can't be restored
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