Quick answer: Sign in at account.microsoft.com/security, open Two-step verification, and add the Microsoft Authenticator app as your primary method. Keep a backup email or codes so you are not locked out of Outlook or Hotmail.
Microsoft accounts protect Outlook.com, Hotmail, Xbox, and often Windows itself. Turning on the Authenticator app is one of the highest-value security upgrades you can make in under ten minutes.
What you need
- Access to your Microsoft account (see Outlook login if you need the sign-in path)
- A smartphone
- The free Microsoft Authenticator app from the official App Store or Google Play
Set up Microsoft Authenticator
- On your phone, install Microsoft Authenticator.
- On a computer, open account.microsoft.com/security and sign in.
- Choose Two-step verification → turn it on / manage.
- Select App-based authentication and follow the QR code instructions in Authenticator.
- Approve the test notification.
- Print or save backup codes / recovery info when offered.
Signing into Outlook afterward
Enter email and password at outlook.live.com, then approve the Authenticator prompt or enter the code. On shared PCs, do not check “keep me signed in.”
Troubleshooting
- No notification: open Authenticator manually and check for a pending number-matching prompt; confirm phone has internet.
- New phone: use backup methods before wiping the old phone; re-add the account in Authenticator.
- Login loops: see Outlook login not working and try clearing cache.
FAQs
Is Authenticator required for Hotmail?
Not always required, but strongly recommended for any @hotmail.com / @outlook.com account with personal mail.
Can I use Google Authenticator instead?
Often yes if Microsoft shows a QR/TOTP option, but Microsoft Authenticator supports approval prompts that many users find easier.
Not affiliated with Microsoft.
Author: Rabi Mehar · Updated: August 2026