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How do I Authenticate my Session?

Whenever you connect to a computer running the host software, you must authenticate yourself to the host, that is, the target computer. That means you need to prove that you have the right to use the remote (host) computer by entering a user name and password that the computer recognizes. Do not enter your LogMeIn ID and password. This will result in Error 1326 or Error 5 (incorrect user name and password).

Remember: Your LogMeIn ID is the one that you use to log in at LogMeIn.com. Your computer user name is the one that you use to physically log in to your Windows or Mac host - that is, when you are physically there at your computer.
Tip:
There are two options:

I have a user on my computer. So which user name and password do I enter?

Enter the user name and password you use to access your computer. It should be the same information you enter when you see a logon screen like one of these samples. If you don't see a similar login screen, go to What if I don't have a user on my computer?

Most computers with multiple users or on a corporate network require you to authenticate in this way. For example, on a Windows PC you are typically forced to press Ctrl-Alt-Delete and enter your user name and password. When connecting via LogMeIn Central to such a computer, you will be asked to enter the same user name and password you use when logging in locally.

Remember: Do not enter your LogMeIn ID and password. This will result in Error 1326 or Error 5 (incorrect user name and password).

What if I don't have a user on my computer?

On some computers you may be prompted to enter a Computer Access Code, also known as "computer passcode". Usually you are prompted to create a Computer Access Code when you install the host software to a remote computer that is not configured to require a Windows or Mac user name and password (when you start the computer, it is ready to go without entering a password). The Computer Access Code gives you assurance that only people who know the special code can access your remote computer.

Important: Do not lose your Computer Access Code. It can be changed from the host - that is, the remote computer - itself, but cannot be retrieved!
Remember: Do not enter your application password when asked for a Computer Access Code.
Tip: Advanced Users: In Windows, the Computer Access Code is actually linked to a hidden Administrator account called LogMeInRemoteUser. The Computer Access Code is the password for the user LogMeInRemoteUser.
Article last updated: 24 January, 2023