When traveling outside the United States, you may not be able to receive Multifactor Authentication (MFA) phone calls or text messages. To avoid access issues, it is strongly recommended that you set up the Microsoft Authenticator app before your trip.
The Microsoft Authenticator app generates a verification code every 30 seconds and does not require cellular service or Wi-Fi.
Set Up Microsoft Authenticator
If you have already configured the app, you may skip to the testing section.
- Install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone from your device’s app store.
- On a computer, sign in to the My Sign-Ins page.
- Select + Add method, then choose Authenticator app from the list.
-
Follow the on‑screen instructions to complete setup using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone .
Important: During setup, allow the app to access your camera and send notifications. These permissions are required for scanning the QR code and receiving sign‑in approvals.
After completing setup, set the Microsoft Authenticator app as your default sign-in method:
- On the My Sign-Ins page, locate Default sign-in method.
- Ensure it is set to Microsoft Authenticator – notification.
Note: If it is not, select Change, then choose Microsoft Authenticator – notification.
Additional Help and Support
If assistance is needed, contact the IT Service Desk.
IMPORTANT:
DO NOT APPROVE AUTHENTICATOR NOTIFICATIONS THAT YOU DID NOT REQUEST. DO NOT PROVIDE AN MFA CODE TO ANYONE. HACKERS MAY ASK FOR A CODE VIA TEXT, PHONE, OR EMAIL - DO NOT PROVIDE IT. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STAFF WILL NEVER ASK YOU FOR A CODE.
