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How to set up Microsoft Authenticator if you're already using another method

Here is how to set up Microsoft Authenticator if you have previously set up two-factor authentication with another application, hardware token or SMS.

Some services (eg Remote Desktop) only support the use of Microsoft Authenticator for login with two-factor authentication. Users who wish to use these services must set up Microsoft Authenticator instead of the previously chosen solution.

Here's how to do it:

  1. Go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup which will take you to My Sign-Ins and Security Info.

    Screenshot of Security info
  2. Click Add sign-in method.
  3. From the Add a method menu, select Authenticator app. Then press Add.

    Screenshot of Security info - Add a method
  4. On your phone: Download Microsoft Authenticator to your phone if you don't already have it installed. Then click Next in the wizard.
  5. Go to Microsoft Authenticator on your phone and click the Plus sign in the top right.

    Screenshot of Authenticator app
  6. Select Work or school account (on the phone).

    Screenshot of Scan QR code in Authenticator app
  7. Select Scan QR Code (on your phone).
  8. Give Authenticator access to the camera on the mobile phone and click OK (on the phone)
  9. In the browser on your computer, click Next.

    Screenshot of Security Info - QR Code
  10. Scan the displayed QR code with the mobile phone's camera.

    Screenshot of Authenticator app scanning QR code
  11. Click Next in the wizard on your computer.
  12. In the browser on your computer you will be prompted to try the setup you just set up.

    Screenshot of Security info - verification process
  13. On your phone: You will receive a notification from Microsoft Authenticator on your phone. Approve the notification sent to the phone by tapping Approve in the app on the phone.
  14. In the browser on your computer, click Next to complete the setup.

    Screenshot of Security Info - Change default method
  15. Back in Security Info, click on the Change link for Default login method, and choose Microsoft Authenticator - notification.

    Screenshot of Security Info - Choose default sign-in method
  16. Finish with Confirm.
Published Oct. 5, 2022 11:34 AM - Last modified Oct. 5, 2022 11:36 AM