Why Microsoft Requires Phone Verification

Microsoft requires phone verification for new account creation, two-step verification, and account recovery. Whether you're setting up a new Outlook email, accessing Microsoft 365, or creating an Xbox account, Microsoft will ask for a phone number at some point during the process.

Users creating multiple Microsoft accounts for business or development purposes, people who prefer not to share their personal number with Microsoft, and those accessing Microsoft services from countries with limited support all benefit from a temp number — a real, working number that handles Microsoft verification without exposing personal data.

What Is a Temp Number (Virtual Phone Number)?

A temp number is a real phone number hosted online that receives SMS codes. Two types are available on CodesSender:

SMS Activation — one-time temp number for account creation.
Phone Rental (7–30 days) — a real number you keep long-term for ongoing 2FA and recovery.

What You Need Before Starting

A CodesSender account
A small balance to purchase a temp number
Microsoft account creation page open in browser

Step-by-Step: How to Verify Microsoft Without Your Personal Number

Step 1 — Open Microsoft and start account creation

Go to account.microsoft.com and click Create Account. Follow the steps until Microsoft asks for a phone number for verification — stop here.

Step 2 — Open CodesSender Activation page

Open codessender.com/activation in a new tab.

Step 3 — Select Microsoft as the service

Search for "Microsoft" and select it, or visit the Microsoft activation page. Temp numbers from United States, United Kingdom and Germany have the highest success rates for Microsoft.

Step 4 — Purchase and copy your number

Activate the temp number and copy it.

Step 5 — Enter the number into Microsoft

Paste your temp number with the correct country code and click Send Code.

Step 6 — Get your code

Click "Get SMS" in CodesSender. Enter the code into Microsoft to complete verification.

Best Countries for Microsoft Verification

United States — best acceptance
United Kingdom — reliable
Germany — strong success rate
France — good option
Poland — cost-effective

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

"This phone number format isn't recognized"

Make sure you've selected the correct country code in Microsoft's phone field. The format must match — for example +1 for US numbers.

Microsoft asking for security info after verification

Microsoft may ask for additional security info. Use Phone Rental to keep a real number active so it can receive future verification codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to use a temp number for Microsoft?

Yes. Ensure your use complies with Microsoft's Terms of Service.

Is a temp number a real number that Microsoft accepts?

Yes. Temp numbers are real, functional numbers that receive SMS. Microsoft's verification system cannot distinguish them from a standard mobile number.

Does this work for Xbox accounts too?

Yes. Xbox accounts use the same Microsoft account system, so the same temp number works for both.

Do I need a VPN?

No VPN required.

Conclusion

Verifying Microsoft without your personal number takes minutes with a temp number from CodesSender. The same real number works for Outlook, Xbox, Microsoft 365, and all other Microsoft services.

Get your Microsoft temp number now and complete verification in under 5 minutes.