Getting started with Microsoft Authenticator (MS MFA App)

Owned by Lucas T
Last updated: Sep 25, 2024 by Ethan Reed
3 min read
Microsoft Authenticator - Apps on Google Play
Microsoft Authenticator logo

About

The Microsoft Authenticator App turns an iOS or Android device into a strong multifactor or passwordless credential. Users can sign-in to any platform or browser by getting a notification to their phone, matching the number displayed on the screen, then using their device unlock gesture to confirm.

https://youtu.be/k0oiKQK3LjQ

 

Install the app

QR codes for Android or iOS app stores

 

  1. Open the Apple App Store or Google Play Store

  2. Search for "Microsoft Authenticator"

  3. Find the app: confirm the publisher is Microsoft Corporation and the icon matches the one shown above.

  4. Install the app.

Want to sign in without a password?

After you setup the Microsoft Authenticator app, check out how you can go Passwordless!

Still have questions?

Start with the https://unw.atlassian.net/l/cp/Uc1rdbQd page.

 

Setup the app

To setup the Microsoft Authenticator app, follow the steps below. You can follow along with a video starting at step 2. Visual steps are provided on the right column. You may also setup alternative devices or authentication methods as a backup.

The setup is best completed on a computer in order to scan the QR code with your mobile device later on.

Starting the setup on your phone will not allow the QR code to be scanned or an error state may arise.

Also, this QR code must be scanned within the app. Trying to do so with the regular camera app will not work.

  1. On a computer, start by going to the Security Info portal for your UNW Microsoft account.

    1. aka.ms/mysecurityinfo

  2. At the top of the list, choose + Add sign-in method.

    1. See here for a visual walkthrough: How to set up authenticator on a new phone | Azure Active Directory

  3. From the dropdown list, choose Authenticator app.

  4. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app if you haven’t already. Once it’s installed on your mobile device, choose Next on the website.

  5. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your device.

  6. You may be asked to allow notifications and camera access for the app.

    1. Notifications will alert you when there is an attempt to login to your account.

    2. Camera access will allow you to scan the QR code in later steps. This is only needed once.

  7. Choose Next on the website.

    1. A QR code will be displayed on the website.

  8. In the Authenticator app, tap the plus (+) icon in the top-right corner.

    1. Choose Work or school account.

    2. Choose Scan QR code.

    3. Scan the QR code displayed on the website.

    4. Choose Next on the website.

  9. Now that the account is setup in the app, you will be asked to approve a test notification.

  10. Enter the number you see on the screen and choose Approve.

You have now setup the Microsoft Authenticator app to secure your account!

 

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