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

Step 1

Log in to Microsoft 365, click your profile photo in the top right corner, and select view account.

Please note: Before using the Authenticator app, OIT recommends registering a phone number for authentication. If you only use the authenticator app, you may be locked out of your account temporarily if you lose or replace your mobile phone.

Step 2

In the Security Info section, select Update Info.

Step 3

The security info screen will show your default method for sign in and list all methods currently connected to your account. As in the screenshot, you should already have a phone number associated with your account. Select Add method to register the Authenticator app.

Step 4

Choose Authenticator app from the method drop-down menu and click Add.

Step 5

Download the app from the link on your screen or visit Microsoft's Authenticator App page for direct links to the Apple and Google Play app stores, or to get a download link sent to your phone.

Step 6

Once downloaded, open the app on your phone and select Add Account.

Step 7

Select Work or school account.

Step 8

Select Sign in or Scan QR code (this tutorial shows the QR code method, but the login process is similar).

Step 9

Scan the QR code using your app and click Next.

Step 10

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

Step 11

You will see a confirmation message that the sign-in has been approved. Click Next.

Step 12

Your security info will update to show that the Authenticator app is connected to your account. To make it the default sign-in option, click Change.

Step 13

Select Microsoft Authenticator - notification, then Confirm.

Step 14

Your security info page will now show that the Authenticator app is the default sign-in method. Return to this page if you change devices or want to switch back to receiving text or phone calls for sign-in.

Please note: You may be prompted to re-authenticate to multiple Microsoft 365 servers (e.g., Teams, Outlook).