How to go passwordless with your Microsoft account

Going passwordless is the next generation of account security. Simple, fast, secure.

If my account doesn't have a password, how will I sign in?

Once you remove your password from your account, you will need to sign in using a passwordless method like the Microsoft Authenticator app, Outlook for Android, Windows Hello, physical security keys, or SMS codes.

Will my account be secure?

Yes! Using alternative sign-in methods like the Microsoft Authenticator app or Outlook for Android, physical security keys, and biometrics are more secure than traditional passwords which can be stolen, hacked, or guessed.

How to remove the password from your Microsoft account

Before removing your password, you'll need to download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app or Outlook for Android. We also recommend that all your devices have the latest software updates.

I have already setup my authenticator app

1. Sign in to your Microsoft account Additional security options.
2. Under Passwordless account, select Turn on.
3. Follow the prompts to verify your account.
4. Approve the request sent to your Microsoft Authenticator app.

Frequently asked questions

What does "Going passwordless" mean?

Going passwordless refers to removing your password and using a passwordless method to sign in instead.

Passwordless solutions such as Windows Hello, the Microsoft Authenticator app, SMS or Email codes, and physical security keys provide a more secure and convenient sign-in method.

While passwords can be guessed, stolen, or phished, only you can provide fingerprint authentication, or provide the right response on your mobile at the right time.

What happens if I lose access to the Microsoft Authenticator app?

If you temporarily don't have access to your authenticator app, you can still use any of your other authentication methods.

If you have lost or replaced your phone, you should remove the authentication methods on that device:

1. Sign in to your Microsoft account dashboard and go to Security > Advanced security options.

   Sign in

2. Under "Ways to prove who you are", look for a line saying Send sign-in notification and your device name.

3. Expand the section, and under "App: Microsoft Outlook" select Remove.

Can I add a password back to my account?

Yes, follow the steps below.

1. Sign in to your Microsoft account Additional security options.
2. Under Passwordless account, select Turn off and then Next.
3. Follow the prompts to add a password back to your account.

Does a passwordless account work with all apps and services?

No. Some older versions of Windows, apps, and services still need a password. Please continue to use a password if you use any of the following:

1. Xbox 360
2. Office 2010 or earlier
3. Office for Mac 2011 or earlier
4. Products and services which use IMAP and POP email services
5. Windows 8.1, Windows 7 or earlier
6. Some Windows features including Remote Desktop and Credential Manager
7. Some command line and task scheduler services.

Do I still need app passwords?

Yes. After you enable two-step verification and go passwordless, some apps or older devices (including Outlook 2010, Xbox 360, and mail-sending devices like security cameras) will each need an app password. Learn more about app passwords.

Can I sign into Xbox without a password?

• Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S: Yes
• Xbox 360: No

To use passwordless authentication:

1. Select Use another device and open the microsoft.com link on a browser.
2. Enter the code provided on the console and sign in with your passwordless method.

Where can I send feedback?

Thank you for being part of a new generation of online security.

Please post any feedback at answers.microsoft.com.

See also

How to use the Microsoft Authenticator app

Go passwordless in Windows

Sign in to your Microsoft account with Windows Hello or a security key

When you can't sign in to your Microsoft account

Passwordless sign-in for work or school accounts

Need more help?

Can't sign in?

If you can't sign into your Microsoft account, most issues can be identified by our sign-in helper tool.

Contact Support

For technical support, go to Contact Microsoft Support, enter your problem and select Get Help. If you still need help, select Contact Support to be routed to the best support option.