Setting up Microsoft Authenticator

Microsoft Authenticator is a two-factor authentication mobile app that keeps your online account secure.

Setting up Microsoft Authenticator

We recommend using a desktop computer or similar for the initial setup.

1. If you're new to the University, you'll be prompted to set up your second factor the first time you sign in to a Microsoft app with your University IT account. You will see a screen saying "Let's keep your account secure". Select 'Next'. You can skip to step 3. 

2. If you're adding Microsoft Authenticator as an additional factor, go to the My Sign-Ins page. Choose "Add sign-in method". Select "Microsoft Authenticator".

3. Download Microsoft Authenticator to your mobile device from the Apple App Store or Google Play App Store. Select "Next" once you've done this.

    

   

    

4. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone. If prompted, allow notifications. Add an account, and select "Work or school".

5. You will see a QR code on your desktop screen. Use the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone to scan the QR code.

    

   

    

6. Select "Next" once this has been done.

7. Make sure you keep the app set up on your phone. If you delete the app, you may be locked out of your account unless you have set up another authentication method.

   If you get a new phone, you will need to set up the app again on your new device before you delete the app from your old phone.  

Using Microsoft Authenticator

The next time you log in to a University system, including your University email account, you may need to use Microsoft Authenticator. You can generate either a notification or a one-time password code (depending on which you chose in the set-up) to verify your identity

• Using a notification
• Using a one-time password code

Using a notification

1. Log in to your Microsoft account or application.

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.

   

    

3. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your device.

   Enter the number that was displayed in the sign-in window.

    

   

    

4. Now you can check that you're signed in to Teams.

Using a one-time password code

1. Log in to your Microsoft account or application.

2. You'll be asked to enter a code:

    

   

    

3. Open Microsoft Authenticator and select your University account.

    

   

    

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.

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.
 

Get help

If you have any queries about MFA or encounter any difficulties, please contact the UIS Service Desk. 

You will be asked to confirm your identity by sharing your:

• CRSid
• full email address
• date of birth
• current College or department
• the year you joined the University