Linking your Microsoft account to devices streamlines your digital experience.
It lets you connect your phone to your Windows PC. To link your account, go to microsoft.com/link and follow the instructions.
Connect your Microsoft account across devices and services to quickly access files, settings, and subscriptions on various platforms.
Set up a new Xbox, install Microsoft Office, or link a third-party app using a link code and follow a few steps at microsoft.com/link.
Connect your phone and PC to send texts, make calls, and view your phone’s photos on your PC screen.
The setup process is quick. Keep your Microsoft account details and phone nearby. The link works for both Android and iPhone.
Connecting Your Microsoft Account Across Devices
Link your Microsoft account to different devices or services by generating a unique code. Select the device or service you want to connect, then sign in to your Microsoft account.
Enter the code when prompted, approving the connection and secure access.
Control which devices or services link to your account with these steps, allowing you to use apps, files, and settings seamlessly across your digital landscape.
Integrate your Microsoft account confidently, knowing only your chosen devices and services have access.
Opening the Link Page
- Launch a web browser and visit microsoft.com/link.
- A page will appear, asking you to enter the link code.
- Type the code exactly as shown on your device or in the service instructions.
- Press “Next” to continue.
Finishing the Link
- Sign in: You must sign in if you still need to log into your Microsoft account.
- Permissions: You may need to allow the device or service to access your Microsoft account.
- Confirmation: A message will confirm the link once it completes successfully.
Typical Situations for Connecting
Situation | Example |
Connecting a New Device (e.g., Xbox, Windows PC) | Enter a code during the setup process to link the device. |
Connecting Microsoft Apps (e.g., Office, OneDrive) | The app shows a code for linking to your account. |
Connecting Third-Party Services (e.g., Spotify) | Follow the steps in settings to link using a code. |
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Verify your code: Make sure the link code you entered is correct, as it’s case-sensitive.
- Reload the page: If you see errors, reload the microsoft.com/link page.
- Clear browser cache and cookies: Clearing cookies might fix specific problems.
- Reach out to Microsoft support: Contact Microsoft support if issues continue.
Set Up Your Microsoft Account to Link Devices
You need a Microsoft account to connect your devices. A Microsoft account lets you sync data and access useful features on both your phone and computer.
Setting up your account makes it easy to switch between devices and keep everything updated.
Start by creating an account if you haven’t already. Once you have it, follow the steps to link your devices.
Linking your devices helps you manage files, contacts, and apps easily while keeping your information secure across all your devices.
Use this quick guide to set up your account and prepare for device linking.
Open or Log in to Your Microsoft Account
Start by visiting microsoft.com. Select “Sign in” from the top right corner. If you need a new account, click “Create one!” Add your name, email, and a secure password.
Enter your email and password to log in if you already have an account.
Use an email you frequently check, as Microsoft will use it as your primary contact. After completing all steps, press “Next” to create your account or log in.
Confirm Your Email and Phone Number
After signing in, Microsoft will prompt you to confirm your email. Look for a code in your inbox. Enter the code on the Microsoft site to verify your email address.
Then, add your phone number for extra account security. Go to your account settings and find “Security info.”
Choose “Add a phone number,” enter your number, and wait for a code by text. Input the code on the site to confirm your phone number.
Change Account Settings and Security Details
Make your account safer. Visit the Security Basics page. You can:
- Enable two-step verification
- Add a backup email
- Choose security questions
Two-step verification provides robust security. It sends a code to your phone during sign-in, preventing others from accessing your account, even if they know your password.
Check your details. Confirm that your name and birthdate are correct. You can edit these in your account’s “Your info” section.
Connect Your Phone to a Windows PC
Connect your phone to your Windows PC to quickly access messages, photos, and apps. The steps differ slightly for Android and iOS devices.
Using ‘Your Phone Companion’ for Android Users
Android users can connect their phones to Windows PCs using the Your Phone Companion app. First, install the app on your Android phone.
Open the Phone Link app on the PC and select “Android” when asked. Sign in with the Microsoft account on both devices.
The PC will display a QR code – and scan it with the phone’s camera to link both devices.
Some Samsung and HONOR models have the Link to Windows app pre-installed. Swipe down from the top of the screen to access Quick Settings. Tap “Link Your Phone and PC” to begin.
After connecting, allow necessary permissions on the phone. The PC will now show notifications, messages, and recent photos from the phone.
Using ‘Continue on PC’ for iOS Users
iOS users can connect through the Continue on PC feature for an essential link. Download the app from the App Store on the iPhone.
Open a webpage in Safari, tap the share button, and select “Continue on PC.”
Log in with the Microsoft account. Select the Windows PC from the list. The webpage will appear instantly on the PC.
This feature only supports webpage sharing and does not offer the complete integration that is available on Android. Messages and photos from the iPhone will not appear on the PC.
Managing Devices on Your Microsoft Account
Log in to account.microsoft.com to view all devices connected to your Microsoft account. Select “Devices” from the menu. A list of linked phones and PCs will appear.
Remove any device you no longer use or do not want to connect. Click on the device, then choose “Remove” to stop it from syncing with your account.
For security, review this list often. Removing old devices helps protect your account. You can also change device names to make identification easier.
Using Phone Features on Your PC
Phone Link lets you use your Android phone’s features straight from your Windows PC. You can stay connected and handle tasks without moving between devices.
Sync Contacts and Manage Calls
Phone Link syncs your phone contacts to your PC, allowing you to quickly find and call contacts without picking up your phone.
You can place calls directly from your PC using its microphone and speakers.
To make a call, open the Phone Link and navigate to the Calls tab, where you can select a contact or type in a number.
You can also answer incoming calls directly on your PC. While on a call, you can mute, switch to speakerphone, or add others for a conference call.
Phone Link also keeps your call history synced, so you can quickly redial recent numbers or check missed calls.
Send and Receive Messages
With Phone Link, you can text from your PC without reaching for your phone.
To send a message, go to the Messages tab in Phone Link, select a contact or start a new conversation, type your message, and click send.
Incoming texts will also show up on your PC, making it easy to stay connected. Phone Link displays your entire message history, allowing you to look up past conversations quickly.
You can also send photos, emojis, and GIFs in your messages, adding variety to your texts.
Access Photos and Notifications
Phone Link gives you access to your phone’s latest photos on your PC, making it easy to view, save, or edit images without transferring files.
To see your photos, open the Photos tab in Phone Link to browse recent images or your entire camera roll.
Click on any photo to view it in full size or save it to your PC for further use.
Additionally, phone notifications appear on your PC, informing you about apps, messages, and more without needing your phone.