Setup Microsoft Authenticator App Authentication
When it comes to Two-Factor Authentication methods, using an authenticator app to generate your Two-Factor login codes is far more secure than text message. The reason? It’s more difficult for a hacker to gain physical access to your phone and generate a code without you knowing about it.
Alex Weinert, Microsoft’s Director of Identity Security, recently wrote “I want to do what I can to convince you that it’s time to start your move away from SMS and voice Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) mechanisms.” SMS messages are open to compromise in a way that other forms of MFA are not.
There are plenty of authenticator apps available for free (Authy, Evernote, or Google Authenticator to name a few) and all offer similar functionality. If you frequently use Microsoft applications and services, the Microsoft Authenticator is a handy tool. Microsoft Authenticator supports password-less logins for all Microsoft apps. If you’re ready to install the Microsoft Authenticator app, follow the instructions below.
Step 1. Download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app
Visit the Apple app store or Google play store on your device and install the Microsoft Authenticator app. Alternatively, visit aka.ms/authapp and download the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Step 2. Add your account to the app
- On your desktop, visit https://aka.ms/mysecurityinfo
- Select Add Method > Authenticator app
- Follow the wizard experience to setup the app
Scan the QR Code in the app and test the push notification flow as part of this experience. For more information, see this guidance.
Step 3. Change default sign-in settings to the Authenticator app
To ensure that you are prompted to sign-in using push notifications:
- Visit https://aka.ms/mysecurityinfo
- Select Default sign-in method > Change> Authenticator – notification
Once you are setup with the Microsoft Authenticator app, you are able to receive push notifications for multifactor authentication verification.
