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Use the steps below to download and install the official Microsoft Authenticator app and how to setup with your computer account.
Step 1: Install the Microsoft Authenticator app
Download the Microsoft Authenticator app for your mobile device.
Be wary of any fake apps which ask for payment information as these are common scams.
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 computer account.
2. Click +Add Method and select Authenticator app from the dropdown.
3. Click Next and a QR code will appear.
4. Open the Authenticator app on your mobile device.
5. Tap the 3 vertical dots in top-right corner to open the menu, click + Add Account, then choose either Work or School Account.
6. Select the Scan a QR Code option and authenticator will connect and open your mobile device's camera so you can then use your mobile device to scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen.
If you are unable to 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 3: Optional step: Turn on cloud backup
This step is optional, but backing up your account credentials and settings to the cloud is optional but highly recommended.
Enabling cloud backup allows you to 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 app and enable 'cloud backup'.
For more information, see: Microsoft Support article.
Step 4: Choose how you want to authenticate
Choose between a push notification or a 6-digit code:
Push notification:
When your sign-in prompts you for verification, 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 your sign-in prompts you for the 6-digit code, open the Authenticator app and locate the code displayed next to your UFV account.
Enter this code on the sign-in screen.
Note: The code changes every 30 seconds.
To change your default method:
1. On the Security Info page, next to Default sign-in Method, click Change.
2. Choose an option from the drop-down menu:
For push notification:
Select 'App-based authentication - notification'.
For 6-digit code authentication:
Select 'App-based authentication or hardware token - code'.
