Microsoft Authenticator is a two-factor authentication program that provides added security to your online account in the form of an app.
Make sure you have signed out of your Microsoft account on other desktop applications, such as Microsoft Teams, Office applications and other browser windows before you start.
We recommend using a desktop computer or similar for the initial setup.
Step 1
Download Microsoft Authenticator to your mobile device from the Apple App Store or Google Play App Store:
Step 2
Follow the instructions on screen, using your mobile device to scan the QR code displayed on your browser.
Step 3
Select 'Next' once this has been done.
You may see a message asking if you want to enable signing in without a password. Please skip this, as it isn't supported at present.
Using Microsoft Authenticator
Make sure you keep the Microsoft Authenticator app set up on your phone. The next time you log in to a University system, including your University email account, you may need to use it to generate either a notification or a one-time password code (depending on which you chose in the set-up) to verify your identity.
If you delete the app, you may be locked out of your account until it can be reset, unless you have set up another authentication method.
Using a notification
Step 1
Log in to your Microsoft account or application.
Step 2
You'll be asked to open Microsoft Authenticator and approve the request to sign in.
The message will include a number that you'll need to enter in the app:
Step 3
Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your device.
Enter the number that was displayed in the sign-in window:
Now you can check that you're signed in to Teams.
Using a one-time password code
Step 1
Log in to your Microsoft account or application.
Step 2
You'll be asked to enter a code:
Step 3
Open Microsoft Authenticator and select your University account
Step 4
Enter the code (One-time password code) displayed on your device without spaces and select 'Verify'.
Signing into Teams
The next time you use the Teams desktop app, make sure you're signed in. Look out for a thin notification banner at the top of the application window that asks you to sign in – it's easy to miss!
Update the settings on your email apps
You may need to update the settings on email apps you use to access your University email account after you've set up MFA.
Managing your multi-factor authentication methods
You can change, remove and update authentication methods at any time by logging in to your University Microsoft account. Find out how to manage your multi-factor authentication settings. We recommend that you set up more than one second factor to give yourself alternatives – for example, if you don't have your mobile phone with you.
Replacing your mobile device
If you replace your mobile device, your Microsoft Authenticator app settings might not be migrated to the new device automatically. Please check and, if you need to, follow these instructions to set up the app on your new device.
Getting help
If you have any queries about MFA or encounter any difficulties, please contact the UIS Service Desk.