How to Sing-in to a Microsoft account with a Security Key

If you it bothers you to remember or reset your password when forgotten, you should then try using Windows Hello or a “Security Key” for signing into your Microsoft account instead.

To Sing-in to a Microsoft account with a Security Key, you firstly need a device running Windows 10 Version 1809 or later, and secondly the Microsoft Edge browser.  Note: This functionality is not accessible yet on phones.

What is a security key?

A security key is a physical device that can be used in place of your username and password to sign in. While it’s used in addition to a PIN or fingerprint, even if somebody gets your security key, they will not be able to sign in without the fingerprint or a PIN that you create. Security keys are typically available to retail stores that sell computer accessories; you can purchase them from there.

Steps to Sing-in to a Microsoft account with a Security Key

There are various types of security keys that can be used to sign in with a security key, like a USB key that you put into your device or a Near-field Communication (NFC) key that you type and tap on an NFC reader. You need to make sure that you are aware of the type of security key you have in your hands by reading the instruction manual from the company.

Steps to follow:

1.    Go to your Microsoft account page and sign in to your account just as you usually would.

2.    After you sign into your account, go to Security and tap More security options.

3.    Here, under Windows Hello and security keys, you need to tap Set up a security key option.

4.    After that, you have to identify what type of key you have (USB or NFC) and then tap the Next button.

5.    Doing so will redirect you to the setup experience where you will either insert your key or tap them.

6.    Now, you need to create a PIN. Or else, you can enter an existing PIN if you have already established one.

7.    Then you will have to take the follow-up action by touching either the switch or gold disk if there’s one printed on your key. Or else, you can read the instruction manual to discover what else it might be.

8.    Then you may name your security key so that it could be distinguished from other keys.

9.    Simply sign out and launch your Microsoft Edge browser, tap Use Windows Hello or security key instead option.  And then just sign-in by tapping or inserting your key where required. That’s all! You are now good to go.

Note: Your security key manufacturer can sometimes provide software that may help you manage your key, such as by creating a fingerprint or changing the PIN.

Hope this information will be helpful to you. All the best!

Olivia Jones is a self-professed security expert; she has been making the people aware of the security threats.Her passion is to write about Cyber security, cryptography, malware, social engineering, internet and new media. He writes for Norton security products at norton.com/setup.