How to setup Multi-factor Authentication
Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) is an authentication method that requires the user to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource such as an online application.
A factor in authentication is a way of confirming your identity when you try to sign in. For example, a password is one kind of factor; it's a thing you know. The three most common kinds of factors are:
- Something you know - Like a password, or a memorized PIN
- Something you have - Like a smartphone, or a secure USB key.
- Something you are - Like a fingerprint, or facial recognition.
Setting up Multi-factor Authentication (For the first time)
Using Microsoft Authenticator
- Download Microsoft Authenticator app in Google Play or the App Store.
- Sign into your Office 365 email account in a different screen device (ex. PC, Laptop) as later on you will need to scan the QR code on screen.
- You will be prompted with this message:
- Click Next and follow steps to set up your authentication method.
Microsoft Authenticator App
Hit Next
- You will be prompted with a QR code. Scan the QR code with your authenticator application on your smartphone.
- On your authenticator app look for the **(+) **in the right-hand side.
a. Choose Work or School Account and scan the QR code.
b. Your account should automatically populate the Authenticator app. See sample screen:
c. Click Next on your computer.
- Your computer will then prompt you to accept the notification as below:
- You will be prompted to approve the notification by matching a number shown on your computer to your authenticator application on your smartphone device.
- Once, your Authenticator application is set up. Click Next.
- You will be brought back to the Office365 log-in screen. The only addition is now whenever you login, you will be prompted with a notification on your phone (via Microsoft Authenticator app) to approve the login. Thank you for keeping your account secure from threat actors!
Updated on: 08/26/2024
Thank you!