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How to Disable the Insert Your Security Key Into the USB Port popup

End the battle against the security key pop-up!

5 min. read

Updated onFebruary 22, 2024

updated onFebruary 22, 2024

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We can all agree that an extra layer of protection is always a welcome option when securing our devices. However, modern methods that require you to insert a physical security key into the USB port may be inconvenient.

As such, you’d rather opt out of the security key business and hop into other ways of securing your account, like verification codes or biometric authentication.

What is Insert your security key into the USB port message on Windows 11?

This is a security measure designed to prevent unauthorized access to your computer. It’s important to know that this message does not mean your computer has been compromised.

However, others see this message eventhough they never created the USB security key. If so, your hardware may not be working properly, oryour OS/browser does not support the security key.

How do I get rid of the Insert your security key into the USB port message in Windows 11?

How do I get rid of the Insert your security key into the USB port message in Windows 11?

Begin with the following preliminary steps before moving to the somewhat technical solutions:

1. Allow your work/school account to sign in automatically

2. Edit your Microsoft account settings

3. Create a new security key

4. Disable your firewall temporarily

5. Create a new user profile

If this option works, you can conclude that youruser profile was corruptand take the necessary steps to repair it. However, if neither of these options works, then you’ll need toperform a clean install of Windowsor contact Microsoft support for additional assistance with this problem.

What are some of the different types of authentication steps with a USB Security Key?

When youcreate a security keyand insert the USB drive, it will not automatically unlock the contents of whatever application you want to open. Otherwise, anyone with access could easily get a hold of your account.

The above authentication steps act as an additional layer of security to prove you’re the true owner before access is granted. As always, we recommend that you follow the best security practices when disabling system components. And remember that all of this is done at your own risk.

Always back up your computer before making changes, and follow your vendor’s guidelines for the best removal process. Elsewhere, you may encounter an issue where yournetwork security key is not working, so feel free to check out our detailed article for quick fixes.

To learn more about security features, don’t miss our guide on theWindows Security buttonand how to use it.

Do you have an additional solution missing from our list but worked for you? We’d love to hear about it so leave us a comment down below.

More about the topics:security

Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.

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Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.