Use this guide to install or reinstall the Microsoft Authenticator app if you have obtained a new phone, reset your device, or removed the Authenticator app and need to add it again.
For first‑time setup, see Register for Microsoft Multifactor Authentication (First‑Time Setup).
Before You Begin: Confirm a Second Authentication Method
A second authentication method (such as a phone number) is required before you can set up Microsoft Authenticator on a new device.
Important: A personal email address does not count as a second authentication method as it is not used for sign‑in verification. It is used only for password reset purposes.
Verify Your Security Info
- Go to the Microsoft My Sign‑Ins page.
- Sign in using your UTRGV username and password.
- Under Security info, confirm that Phone is listed as an authentication method.
If Phone Is Not Listed
- Select Add sign‑in method (plus icon)
- Choose Phone, and follow the prompts.
If Your Phone Number Is Incorrect
- Select Change next to Phone and update the number.
Remove an Old Authenticator Device (If Listed)
If your previous device is still listed under Microsoft Authenticator:
- Locate the old device from the list.
- Select Delete next to that device.
- Continue with the setup steps below.
Reinstall the Microsoft Authenticator App
Step 1: Use the Microsoft My Sign‑Ins page
- On the My Sign‑Ins (Security Info) page, select Add sign‑in method (plus icon).
- Choose Microsoft Authenticator from the list of options.
Step 2: Install Microsoft Authenticator on Your Phone
Follow the on‑screen instructions to install the Microsoft Authenticator app from your phone's app store.
Important: During setup, allow the app to access your camera and notifications. These permissions are required for scanning the QR code and receiving sign‑in approvals.
Step 3: Add Your UTRGV Account to Microsoft Authenticator
- Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone.
- Select Add account.
- Choose Work or school account.
- Select Scan a QR code.
Do NOT select the sign‑in option.
- Use your phone to scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen.
Note: This screen may time out if setup takes too long. If this happens, refresh the page and restart the process.
Available Authentication Methods
You may add multiple authentication methods for flexibility and account recovery.
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Receive sign‑in approval notifications
- Generate one‑time passcodes every 30 seconds, even without cellular service
- Phone
- Receive a verification call or SMS code
- Alternate Phone
- Receive a verification call
- Office Phone
- Receive a verification call
- Email (non‑UTRGV)
- Used only for password reset, not sign‑in verification
Step 4: Set Your Default Sign‑In Method
Setting a default sign‑in method helps streamline future logins.
Recommendation: Choosing Microsoft Authenticator – notification is highly advised, as it offers both user-friendly functionality and improved security.
Additional Help and Support
If you have changed your phone number or no longer have access to the Microsoft Authenticator app, your MFA methods must be reset by the IT Service Desk.
Identity verification is required for all MFA resets as part of UTRGV’s IT security procedures.
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.
