Summary
The purpose of this article is to walk you through the process for setting up Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) for your Microsoft 365 account.
Setting up MFA for your Microsoft 365 account is a straightforward process and will provide the smoothest user experience. Please ensure that the app is already installed on your mobile device before you begin the set up steps below. You will find step-by-step instructions in the article How to Install the Microsoft Authenticator App.
Icon for the Microsoft Authenticator app provided by the Microsoft Corporation. This is a FREE app.
How-To
Task: To set up Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) for your Microsoft 365 account using the Microsoft Authenticator App
Note: These instructions assume you are using a computer. If you do not have access to a computer at this time, follow the instructions here instead - Setting up Microsoft Authenticator App using Mobile Phone/Device only
Instructions
Step 1 - On your computer, go to: myaccount.microsoft.com
Step 2 - Click on UPDATE INFO in the Security info tile
Step 3 - Click Add sign-in method
Step 4 - Click the Choose a method drop down and select Authenticator app
Step 5 - If you do not have the FREE Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone, install it now.
Step 6 - Click Next after the Microsoft Authenticator app is installed on your phone.
Step 7 - On your phone, open the Microsoft Authenticator app. Allow notifications if prompted.
Step 8 - In the app, click Add account or the Plus Sign +. Select Work or School account and the option to Scan QR Code.
Step 9 - If prompted, Allow the Microsoft Authenticator app to Access the Camera.
Step 10 - Use the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone to scan the QR code that appears on the computer screen. After you scan the code, click Next.
Step 11 - If prompted, Allow the Authenticator app to Send You Notifications.
Step 12 - On your phone, Approve the test notification from Microsoft Authenticator
Step 13 - You're all set and can now use the Microsoft Authenticator app for multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Outcome
Users who have set up Multi factor Authentication for Microsoft 365 will be prompted for MFA periodically when signing into Email, Teams, OneDrive sync, and other Microsoft 365 tools on both their computers and their mobile devices.