Trying to log in but in a circle

If sign-in is asking for a code from Microsoft Authenticator, and Authenticator itself cannot be accessed because it also requires that same sign-in, use a different verification path instead of trying to get the code from inside that locked loop.

Try these steps in order:

1. On the sign-in screen, look for Use a different way to sign in, Show more verification options, or I don’t have any of these.
2. If another method is available, use it:
   • SMS
   • alternate email
   • recovery code
3. If the code is being sent to another Microsoft email account such as @outlook.com, @hotmail.com, @live.com, or @msn.com, open the first sign-in in a privacy/InPrivate browser window, then open a second privacy/InPrivate window to sign in to the alternate email account and retrieve the code. This avoids one sign-in session signing out the other.
4. If access to some security info still exists, sign in to Advanced security options, add a new way to sign in or verify, confirm it with the code sent there, then remove the old method.
5. If access to all security info is lost, start sign-in and at Verify your identity select I don’t have any of these, then follow the prompts to replace security info. After replacement, sign-in is blocked for 30 days.
6. If the password is also not known, use the account recovery form.

Important:

• A Microsoft account recovery code is a 25-digit code used to help regain access if the password is forgotten or the account is compromised.
• Do not change all security info at the same time, because the account may be restricted for 30 days.
• If verification messages are not arriving, the account may be flagged for unusual activity or locked for security reasons.

If Outlook mobile is already set up for that account, it can also be used to get a one-time sign-in code:

1. Open Outlook mobile.
2. Tap the Home icon.
3. Tap the settings gear.
4. Under General, tap Accounts and select the account.
5. Tap Sign-in requests.
6. Copy the code and paste it into the sign-in page.

If Authenticator is the only method configured for a work or school account, contact the organization’s IT administrator. An admin can revoke the session and require re-registration of authentication methods.

References:

• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues
• How to get a Microsoft account recovery code
• Using Outlook mobile to sign in
• Microsoft Authenticator requires a code from itself to log my account into authenticator - Microsoft Q&A