Since the Microsoft account works on the web and in Outlook, the issue is likely with Windows sign-in or account verification on the PC rather than the account itself.
Try this in order:
- Restart the PC
- If updates are pending, use Update and restart.
- This can clear temporary sign-in issues in Windows.
- Verify the account details carefully during sign-in
- Make sure the email domain is correct, especially for Outlook, Hotmail, or Live addresses such as
.comvs.co.uk. - Check for small typing mistakes in the email name.
- Make sure the email domain is correct, especially for Outlook, Hotmail, or Live addresses such as
- If Windows says the password is incorrect, reset the Microsoft account password again
- Use Recover your account.
- Enter the email address, phone number, or Skype name used to sign in.
- Choose where to receive the security code, select Next, enter the requested information, then Send code.
- Enter the code in Verify your identity, select Next, then set a New password.
- If verification codes are not arriving
- Review the recovery guidance and submit the account recovery form if access to security info is unavailable.
- If Windows offers security info that is not recognized, recheck the email domain and spelling.
- For Windows sign-in issues related to verification, use the Windows sign-in troubleshooting options for forgotten PIN, password reset, or missing verification codes.
- If Microsoft Authenticator is involved at any step
- Make sure the app is unlocked.
- Ensure notifications are enabled and not silent.
- Update to the latest version of Microsoft Authenticator.
- Check internet connectivity and try switching between Wi‑Fi and mobile data.
- Make sure the device date and time are correct.
- If authentication still fails, in the app go to the top-level menu and select Send feedback to send logs.
- If the problem is only on this Windows installation after wiping the PC
- Use the Windows sign-in recovery paths for Forgot your PIN, Change or reset your Windows password, or Forgot your Microsoft account password.
- If the username is reported as not found or still will not work on the PC
- Use the Sign-in Helper tool.
- If the username still is not recognized after recovery attempts, contact support.
If the account has not been signed in to for more than two years, it may have been deleted and cannot be reopened.