MFA Microsoft Authenticator App

The Microsoft Authenticator app helps you sign in to your accounts when you're using multi-factor authentication (MFA). The Authenticator App works without cell service, and it's free on iOS and Android devices.

Below are step-by-step instructions on how to setup Microsoft Authenticator App.

Step 1: Install the Microsoft Authenticator app

Download the Microsoft Authenticator app for your mobile device:

• For Android: Google Play store
• For iOS: App store

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.

6. After you scan the image, you will be prompted to verify the setup was successful.

Step 2(a): Turn on cloud backup (optional)

• The Microsoft Authenticator app backs up your account credentials and settings to the cloud.
• You can then 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.
• Open the settings menu within the Authenticator App and turn on 'cloud backup' to get started.
• 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'.