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Setting up new surface with work account

I can't understand why this is so difficult.

I'm seeing a new computer, I try to sign in as a work account. Somehow I can't simply py my email and password, but it asks me for a security key on a usb. I don't have it and after an hour trying to understand what it is and how to get one I am none the wiser.

The only other option was to create a local account. In account settings, in front of the local account there's a clickable link stating 'Sigb in with a Microsoft account instead'. Yes, please I click on, type my email and it replies that the account does not exist. It the old shenanigans Microsoft account versus Office 365 (Microsoft 364) - no matter how many times I revisit this question, if I ever understand it, I won't remember next time I come across it... It is not clear!

Can anyone please help.

Surface 8pro

Windows 11

Microsoft 365 business

Hello nsgma365,

Welcome to the Microsoft community.

I noticed that you are trying to log in to your Surface device using a work account but asking you for a security key on a USB, right?

Since you are trying to use your work account in a work environment, then you need to contact administrator in your organization to get a security key. This is set up by them, so you personally you are not able to successfully pass authentication. Seeking their help would be a better option.

If there is anything that is not clear, do not hesitate to let me know.

Sincerely,

Mavis - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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I am the administrator. We don't have an IT department.

I cannot find anywhere how to produce that security key.

The only links assume the account is already created somewhere - fine in my case it is. But when I go to security info >> add a method, security key is not an option.

Regardless, why is that the only way to add an account now??

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Concise and straightforward solution here:

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Hi nsgma365,

Glad to hear that your issue has been resolved. We appreciate you sharing the solution with us as well, and we believe it will help other future users of this forum who are experiencing similar issues.

If you encounter problems again in the future, please feel free to post again in the forum and we will continue to provide assistance.

Thanks again for sharing your enthusiasm.

Sincerely,

Mavis - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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Last updated May 15, 2024 Views 3,453 Applies to: