Below are step-by-step instructions on how to setup Microsoft Authenticator App.
Note: The Microsoft Authenticator app is FREE and published by Microsoft Corporation. Be wary of fake apps which ask for payment information - this is a common scam.
Only install the official Microsoft Authenticator app using the guided method (below) and the official links: for Android: Google Play store or for iOS: App store.
Step 1: Install the Microsoft Authenticator app
Download the Microsoft Authenticator app for your mobile device:
When prompted, ALLOW Camera Access and Notifications.
Step 2: Setup your UFV account in the Authenticator app
1. From a computer, go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup and sign in with your UFV credentials
2. Click +Add Method and select Authenticator app from the dropdown. Click Next and you will be presented with a QR code.
3. Open the Authenticator app on your mobile device.
4. Tap the plus sign or tap the 3 menu dots in the upper right corner, and then + Add Account. Select Work or School Account.
5. Select the Scan a QR Code option (the Authenticator app will open your device's camera). Use your phone/device to scan the QR code displayed on the computer screen.
Note: If you can't scan the QR code, follow the Microsoft guidelines under Add your work or school account.
6. After you scan the image, you will be prompted to verify the setup was successful.
Step 2(a): Turn on cloud backup (optional)
Note: Backing up your account credentials and settings to the cloud is optional but highly recommended
Enabling cloud backup means you can use the app to recover your information on another device (e.g. if you get a new phone). If you have an Android and a personal Microsoft account, or an iPhone and a personal iCloud account, you can use Cloud Backup.
To enable Cloud Backup, open the settings menu within the Authenticator App and enable 'cloud backup', For more information on cloud backup, refer to Microsoft's support article: Back up and recover account credentials in the Authenticator app.
Step 3: Choose how you want to authenticate
You can choose between a push notification or a 6-digit code:
- Push notification: When your sign-in prompts you for verification, you will tap 'Approve' on the notification received by your device. You will then be asked to match a number found on the sign-in screen.
- 6-digit code: When prompted for the 6-digit code at the sign-in screen, you will open the Authenticator app and locate the code displayed next to your UFV account. You will enter this code on the sign-in screen. The code changes every 30 seconds.
To change your default method:
1. At the top of the Security Info page, next to Default sign-in Method, click Change.
A drop-down will appear:
- For push notification: select 'App-based authentication - notification'.
- For 6-digit code authentication: select 'App-based authentication or hardware token - code'.
