Connecting your Microsoft account to your devices makes managing your digital life more straightforward. Start by visiting microsoft.com/link and follow the steps.
Once linked, you’ll easily access files, settings, and subscriptions on different platforms. This connection works with Android and iPhone, letting you send texts, make calls, and view your phone’s photos on your PC screen.
Whether setting up a new Xbox, installing Microsoft Office, or linking a third-party app, this process involves a link code and straightforward steps on microsoft.com/link.
Just have your Microsoft account information and phone nearby for a quick setup that connects your phone and Windows PC.
Connecting with the Link Code
To connect a device or service to your Microsoft account, retrieve a unique link code. This code links your Microsoft account and the specific device or service.
Steps to Enter Your Link Code
- Open a browser and go to microsoft.com/link.
- When prompted, enter the link code exactly as shown on your device or in the service instructions.
- Click “Next” to complete the process.
Complete the Link
- Grant Access: The device or service might ask you to give it access to your Microsoft account.
- Sign In: Log into your Microsoft account if you still need to be signed in.
- Confirm: You will receive a confirmation message when the link is complete.
Everyday Situations for Linking Devices and Apps
| Situation | Example |
| Adding a new device (like Xbox or Windows PC) | The setup will prompt you to enter a code to link the device. |
| Connecting Microsoft apps (such as Office or OneDrive) | The app will display a code to link it with your account. |
| Linking external services (like Spotify) | The service’s settings will show steps to link using a code. |
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Reload microsoft.com/link: If you see an error, refresh the page to try again.
- Double-check the Link Code: Enter the code carefully, as it’s case-sensitive.
- Clear Browser Cache and Cookies: Clearing these may help resolve specific issues.
- Contact Microsoft Support: If problems continue, contact Microsoft support for help.
Link Devices by Setting Up Your Microsoft Account
To link your devices, set up a Microsoft account. With it, you can sync data and access your phone and PC features. Here’s how to get started and connect your devices.
Setting Up or Logging In to Your Microsoft Account
Begin by visiting microsoft.com. Click “Sign in” at the top right corner. If you don’t already have an account, select “Create one!” Provide your name, email, and a secure password. For those with an existing account, simply enter your email and password to log in.
Be sure to use an email you check frequently, as this will be your main point of contact with Microsoft. After completing the details, click “Next” to create your account or sign in.
Confirming Your Email and Phone Number
After signing in, Microsoft will ask you to verify your email. Check your inbox for a code, then enter this code on the Microsoft site to confirm email ownership.
For added security, connect your phone number. Navigate to account settings, find “Security info,” and click “Add a phone number.” Enter your number and wait for a code via text message. Enter this code on the website to complete the phone verification.
Change Your Account Settings and Security Details
Make your account safer now. Visit the Security Basics page. Here, you can:
- Enable two-step verification
- Add a backup email
- Choose security questions
Two-step verification adds strong protection. It sends a code to your phone each time you log in, preventing others from accessing your account, even if they know your password.
Review your details as well. Ensure your name and birth date are correct. You can update these in your account’s “Your info” section.
Pair Your Windows PC with Your Phone
You can connect your phone to a Windows PC to quickly view messages, photos, and apps. The steps differ a bit for Android and iOS devices.
Connecting Android Phones to Windows with Your Phone Companion
Use the Your Phone Companion app to connect an Android phone to a Windows PC. First, install the app on your Android phone. Open the Phone Link app on your PC and select “Android” when prompted. Log in to your Microsoft account on both devices. Your PC will show a QR code – scan it with your phone’s camera to link them.
Samsung and HONOR phones often have the Link to Windows app pre-installed. Access it by swiping to open Quick Settings and selecting “Link Your Phone and PC.”
Once connected, allow necessary permissions on your phone. You’ll then see notifications, messages, and recent photos from your phone on your PC.
Using Continue on PC for Limited iOS Compatibility
For iOS users, Microsoft provides the Continue on PC option. This feature allows limited connection between iPhone and Windows. Download the app from the App Store, then open a webpage in Safari. Tap the share icon and select “Continue on PC.”
Choose your PC from the device list after signing in with your Microsoft account. The selected webpage will open on your PC immediately.
This iOS feature only supports webpage sharing. Unlike the Android integration, it doesn’t allow viewing messages or photos from your iPhone on your PC.
Manage Devices on Your Microsoft Account
To keep your Microsoft account secure, regularly check and manage connected devices. Start by signing in at account.microsoft.com, then go to the “Devices” section in the menu. You’ll see a list of all phones and PCs linked to your account.
Remove any devices you no longer use or don’t recognize for security. Click on a device and select “Remove” to stop it from syncing with your account. You can also rename each device to make them easier to identify.
Using and Controlling Phone Features on Your PC
Phone Link lets you access your Android phone’s features directly from your Windows PC. It helps you stay connected and manage tasks without switching devices.
Sync Contacts and Handle Calls
Phone Link copies your phone’s contacts to your PC, making it easy to find and call people without needing your phone. You can make calls on your PC with its microphone and speakers.
Open the Phone Link and go to the Calls tab to place a call. Select a contact or enter a number. You can also answer calls on your PC. You can mute, use the speaker, or add more people for a group call during calls.
Phone Link also syncs your call history, letting you redial recent numbers or check missed calls.
Send and Receive Messages
With Phone Link, texting from your PC is quick and easy. Send messages to individuals or groups without picking up your phone.
To send a text, go to the Messages tab in the Phone Link. Select a contact or start a new chat. Type your message and click send. Incoming texts show up on your PC as well.
Phone Link shows your message history, making it easy to remember past conversations. You can also send images, emojis, and GIFs in your messages.
View Photos and Notifications
Phone Link lets you view your phone’s latest photos on your PC, simplifying saving or editing them without file transfers.
To see photos, go to the Photos tab on the phone link. You can browse recent images or the entire camera roll. Click on an image to view it full-size or save it to your PC.
Your phone’s notifications also appear on your PC, keeping you updated without needing your phone. You’ll see alerts from apps, texts, and other messages.
