Two-step Authentication in Hotmail

Like Gmail and Facebook, Microsoft provides 2-step security verification to safeguard its mail accounts (Hotmail or Outlook) for the customers. Security verification is a necessary setting after you registered your Microsoft account. It hinders any hackers from logging in using your identity even they have your password. Whenever signing in from a suspected device, you will be prompted to enter a security code.

Before starting the authentication procedure, you should provide your phone number or an alternate email ID.

How to enable two-step authentication on Hotmail or Outlook

• 1. Go to the Security basics page. Click Sign in. It's in the upper-right corner of the page.

• 1. Enter your Hotmail/Outlook email address then click Next.

  2. Enter your password and click Sign in. See also: Hotmail Sign in.

  3. Scroll down and select more security options.

• 1. You are now required to verify your identity. You can verify your account via SMS or a phone call. Click to select your preferred method.

• 1. You may be required to enter the last 4 digits of your phone number. If so, enter it into the text box in the middle of the page then click Send code.

• 1. Check your phone for Identity Verification Code. Enter it into the Code box and click Verify.

• 1. Click Set it up later.

  2. Under Two-step verification, click Set up two-step verification.

• 1. Click Next.

  2. Click the down arrow button to select the option that you want to verify your identity. Follow the instructions then click Next.

• 1. Enter the code that has been sent to your phone number or your alternate email address. Then click Next.

• 1. Click Next.

  2. Click Finish.

Done! You have successfully completed two-step authentication for your Hotmail account!

If you turn on two-step verification, you’ll get a security code to your email, phone, or authenticator app every time you sign in on a device that isn't trusted.