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Microsoft 365 Multi-Factor Authentication - Register and Set Up Microsoft Authenticator App

Use these instructions to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app. To access and update your current Microsoft MFA settings, use the Find and Update Security Info tutorial. Learn more about Microsoft MFA.

Before starting this process, we recommend you have both a computer and your mobile device with you. Attempting to complete this process only on a Mobile device can be complex, and OIT does not recommend it.

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Step 1

The first time you go to sign into a CU Boulder service, you will be prompted to register for MFA. When prompted with the screen shown here, click Next.

Please note: If you already set up MFA with another method and are adding the Microsoft Authenticator app to your account, use the Find and Update Security Info tutorial.  

Step 2

You will be prompted to install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device. If you do not already have the app, download the Free Microsoft Authenticator App from the Microsoft's Authenticator App page, the link provided on screen, or visit your mobile device's app store to download. 

When the app is downloaded on your mobile device, click Next.

Step 3

Next you will see a screen directing you to complete set up in the app. Leave this page up on your computer while you complete the next steps on your mobile device.

Step 4

Once downloaded, open the app. The app will show up with a blue lock on a white background. 

Step 5

 Select Add Account or click the + icon in the top right corner. 

Step 6

If you already have an account set up on the app, you will likely need to authenticate with your other account before the app will allow you to add a new one. If you are only using the Microsoft Authenticator app for your CU Boulder account, and the app is asking you to authenticate, you may need to uninstall and reinstall the app.

Step 7

Select Work or school account.

Step 8

Select Scan QR code (this tutorial shows the QR code method, but the process is similar if you choose Sign In). 

Step 9

Scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen from step 3 and click Next. 

Step 10

After scanning the code, you will be prompted to approve the sign-in on the app. Select Approve. 

Step 11

The Authenticator app is set up as your default sign-in method. You can update your settings at any time on the My Account page of your Microsoft account. 

Use our Find and Update Security Info tutorial to add additional sign in methods (e.g. a back up phone number) or if you change devices and need to register your new device. 

Please note: You may be prompted to re-authenticate to access other Microsoft 365 applications (e.g., Teams, Outlook) after adding a new authentication method.