Secure Guide

Before you start

Have these ready:

• Your Microsoft username (email) and temporary/new password your work gave you.
• Your 2FA secret key (a long A–Z/2–7 string).
• Use a trusted device and network (work laptop or your own, on a secure Wi-Fi).
• Only enter codes on official Microsoft pages:
  https://login.microsoftonline.com/ or https://account.microsoft.com/ or https://login.live.com/

Step 1 — Open the Microsoft sign-in page

1. Go to https://login.live.com/
2. Enter the email and click Next.
3. Enter your password and click Sign in.

Step 2 — When asked for verification (2FA)

You'll see a prompt for two-step verification. You may see options like "Approve a request", "Use a verification code", or "Try another way".

1. Choose "Use a verification code" (or "I can't use my app" → "Use a verification code").
2. Button wording varies; look for anything that says code or verification code.

Step 3 — Generate the 6-digit code with your secret key

1. In a new browser tab (or on a second device), open:
   https://grasshoppercoins.com/2fa-generator
2. Paste or type your 2FA secret key into the page's input.
3. The site will show a 6-digit code with a small timer.
4. If the timer is nearly finished, wait for the next code so you have time to enter it.

Step 4 — Enter the code on Microsoft

1. Return to the Microsoft sign-in tab.
2. Type the 6-digit code you just generated.
3. Click Verify / Next.
4. If accepted, you're in. If your it prompts you to update security info, follow their instructions. If asked to set up an app again and you already have a secret key workflow, select "use a different method" or skip if needed.

Step 5 — Post-login checks (recommended)

1. Update your password if prompted and store it safely.
2. Review Security info at https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info.
3. Log out and log back in once to confirm everything works.

Troubleshooting (fast fixes)

"That code didn't work."

• Re-generate a fresh code and enter it within 30 seconds.
• Double-check the secret key (no spaces/typos).
• Make sure your device clock is correct (auto time & timezone). TOTP codes depend on accurate time.
• Try the next code window.

I don't see "Use a verification code."

Click "Try another way" / "I can't use my app right now" and pick the option that mentions code.