Question
How do I change my multi-factor authentication method to the Microsoft Authenticator app?
Overview
What is Microsoft Authenticator?
Microsoft Authenticator is an app available on the App Store or Google Play that allows you to authenticate Microsoft 365 sign-ins. You can easily add the Microsoft Authenticator app as an authentication option on your account.
Add Microsoft Authenticator to your multi-factor authentication methods:
Note: You'll need your computer and your mobile device handy for the easiest set-up experience.
1. Open your Microsoft 365 authentication settings on your computer by CLICKING HERE and signing in with either starid@minnstate.edu or starid@go.minnstate.edu and your StarID password. Once signed in, you'll be able to view your authentication options.
If "Text Message" or "Phone Call" is the only multi-factor authentication option on your account, your screen will show "Phone" as your authentication option.
2. Click “Add sign-in method” to start the process of setting up the Microsoft Authenticator app for your multi-factor authentication.
3. From the drop down menu, choose Authenticator App. If you haven’t already downloaded Microsoft authenticator to your mobile device, download and install Microsoft Authenticator now from the App Store or Google Play.
4. Once installed on your mobile device, click Next on your computer.
5. Click Next on the next window.
6. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device. Tap the + button in the upper right corner.
7. On the Add Account screen, tap Work or School Account.
8. Tap Scan QR Code on the next window.
9. A camera screen will pop-up. Scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen, then click Next on your computer.
10. A number will appear in a new window on your computer screen. This number will be the number you enter on your mobile device.
11. Type the number from your computer screen on your mobile device.
12. If the number matches and setup was successful, you will see “Notification approved” on your computer screen.
13. Return to your computer screen and click “Change” next to Default sign-in method.
14. On the Change default method window, choose “App based authentication – notification” from the drop down menu. Click Confirm.
Now you're all set up to use the Microsoft Authenticator app to authenticate Microsoft 365 sign-ins! Have questions or having trouble? Contact the IT Solutions Center