How do I Set Up M365 Multi-Factor Authentication?

Modified on Wed, Oct 9 at 6:37 PM

The first time you log in to Microsoft 365 after Multi-Factor Authentication is enabled, you will be prompted with an *Action Required* screen. It offers a couple of methods to validate your identity. *We strongly encourage using the Microsoft Authenticator option, as it is the most secure and relatively easy to use after initial setup.* It will require you to have your smartphone with you when you log in. While you can use the “Ask Later” option, you may have to do that several times and “Skip” other screens. We suggest continuing by clicking Next.
	If you haven’t already installed the *Microsoft Authenticator App* on your smartphone, you will need it for these next steps. Click on the Download Now link, which will open a new browser tab where you can scan a QR code to download the app. Once it is installed, click Next. On your Smartphone, open the *Microsoft Authenticator app* and touch the ‘+’ in the upper right of the screen. This will take you to the screen with the option to select “Work or School.” Click on that option and then click on Scan QR Code.
On the browser, click Next. You will see the following screen. ---> Point your Smartphone camera at the QR Code. Once this captures the QR code, it should show up in your authenticator app with your organization’s name.
	Click *Next* in the browser window (as shown above). NOTE: If for some reason you cannot scan the image, hit the “Can’t scan image?’ button below the QR code in the browser (see above), and you will be offered a code and URL that can be entered in the app by tapping Or enter the code manually” on your smartphone.
You will be prompted to enter a number from your smartphone's *Authenticator app* in the browser window. Enter the number into your Smartphone App and hit “Yes” after entering it on the screen. ---->
	Upon success, the browser will show *“Notification approved."* Click Next. You will then be provided with an alternate means of authentication, such as a text message on your cell phone. Providing your cell phone number can be used as a backup method to the authenticator app. Alternatively, you can click on the I want to set up a different method link, shown at the bottom of the screen You can choose to either receive a phone call at a number you provide or an email other than your work email. In either case, you will be provided with a code through the method you choose, and you will need to enter it to proceed. Click *Next.* Once that is complete, click Done to proceed, and you will have completed your MFA setup.