How do I Install and Configure Microsoft Authenticator?

Step-by-step instructions for downloading, installing, and configuring the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

Prerequisites:

• A computer (desktop or laptop) to access your security settings.
• An Android or iOS smartphone or tablet.
• Your organization account credentials (email and password).

Step 1: Download the App on Your Mobile Device

1. On your mobile device, open the official app store or visit the official Microsoft Authenticator Support Page to find official download links. Alternatively, navigate directly to your device's store:
   • Apple iOS: App Store
   • Android: Google Play Store
2. Search for Microsoft Authenticator. Note: Ensure the publisher is listed as Microsoft Corporation to avoid third-party imitations.
3. Download and install the app.
4. Once installed, open the app, read and accept the privacy statements, and allow permissions for notifications and camera access if prompted.

Step 2: Initiate Setup on Your Computer

IMPORTANT NOTE ON SIGNING IN:
When you attempt to sign in to manage your security settings, Microsoft may immediately prompt you to approve a notification on your Microsoft Authenticator app.

• If you have a backup method configured: Click "Sign in another way" or "I can't use my Microsoft Authenticator app right now" on the screen to authenticate using a text message (SMS), phone call, or email backup code instead.
• If this is your very first time setting up MFA or you have no backup methods: You will not be able to bypass this screen on your own. Please contact the IT Help Desk so an administrator can temporarily bypass the requirement or issue a Temporary Access Pass (TAP) for you to log in and complete this setup.

1. On your computer, open a web browser and sign in to your Microsoft Security Info page at mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info.
2. Log in using your full organization email address and password (and use a backup verification method if prompted as noted above).
3. On the Security Info page, click the + Add sign-in method button.
4. In the drop-down menu, select Authenticator app and click Add.
5. A prompt will appear stating "Start by getting the app." Since you already downloaded it in Step 1, click Next.
6. Click Next again on the "Set up your account" prompt to display a unique QR Code on your computer screen. Keep this window open.

Step 3: Link Your Account in the App

1. Pick up your mobile device and open the Microsoft Authenticator app.
2. Tap the + (Plus) icon or select Add account.
3. When prompted for the account type, select Work or school account.
4. Select the option to Scan a QR code. (If prompted, allow the app to access your device's camera).
5. Hold your mobile device up to your computer screen and align the camera view with the QR Code displayed in Step 2. The app will automatically scan and register your account.

Step 4: Test and Complete the Verification

1. Once the QR code is successfully scanned on your mobile device, return to your computer screen and click Next.
2. A test notification will be sent to your phone, and a 2-digit number will appear on your computer screen.
3. On your mobile device, type the matching 2-digit number into the prompt notification and tap Approve or Yes.
4. Once approved, your computer will display a "Notification approved" or "Success!" message. Click Next and then Done.

Next Steps and Best Practices

On your Security Info webpage, verify that the Default sign-in method is set to Microsoft Authenticator - notification. This ensures that you will receive seamless push alerts when logging into your account in the future.

If you do not have cellular service or Internet access on your mobile device when logging in, you can still sign in by choosing "Use a verification code instead" on your computer screen and typing in the rotating 6-digit passcode displayed when tapping your account name inside the app.