recovery code

An over-the-shoulder close up view of a Corgi sitting in front of a Windows computer screen. The screen is full of authentication requests including a password field across the top, with a "click all images containing a bicycle" CAPTCHA, as well as entry fields for "Your mother's maiden name:", "Your first pet:", "Your favorite teachers", Also included is an image of 4 spotlights above a stage pointed at the camera with the question "How many lights do you see", with an entry field "There are ___ lights!" Also included is a field to "Enter code displayed on your authenticator:", as well as a field to "Enter code sent to your email:" and a field to "Enter code sent to your phone:". The Corgi's fur is standing on-end as if surprised and overwhelmed by the number of entries displayed.

Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts?

There’s a good reason why getting back into a locked account can feel impossible. I’ll discuss why account recovery has to be difficult, what you can do to make it easier on yourself, and how to avoid losing an account for good.

A Corgi looking at a mobile phone displaying a two-factor authentication code.

The Easy-to-Avoid Two-Factor Loss Risk

Two-factor authentication keeps your accounts safe, but what happens if you lose your phone or key fob? I’ll walk you through what you need to do now so you never need to worry about being locked out later.

Ann over-the-shoulder view of a Corgi in a home office sits in front of a Windows PC with an extra large screen displaying the BitLocker configuration screen.

How Do I Turn Off BitLocker? What Happens If I Do?

BitLocker encrypted your drive, intentionally or otherwise, but now you want it gone. Turning it off is easy whether you run Windows Home or Pro. I’ll walk you through both, explain what you’re giving up, and remind you why saving that recovery key matters.

A Corgi outside holding a smartphone displaying "Account Recovery Successful!" with a green checkmark.

Please Set Up and Maintain Account Recovery Information

Locked out of an account for good? It happens more often than you think, and it’s almost always avoidable. I’ll explain the steps you can take today to make sure you’re never permanently shut out.

Safety Net

How Should I Keep Recovery Codes Secure?

Recovery codes protect you against account loss. The issue? Where to store them safely.

Microsoft Recovery Code

Recover Your Account Later by Setting Up a Microsoft Recovery Code Now

A recovery code created in advance can help you regain access to your Microsoft account if you get locked out.

Microsoft Account Recovery Code - What and Why with Instructions Included

Microsoft Account Recovery Code

Possession of a Microsoft account recovery code is proof you are the account owner and should be allowed in should you ever lose account access.

Locke Out

How Do I Keep Outlook.com from Locking Me Out When I Travel?

When your email is suddenly accessed from a new location, it could mean someone other than you is trying to log in. Email providers like Outlook.com watch for this.

Two-step authentication alternatives in Google

Tip of the Day: Prepare for Losing Your Second Factor