How to Add your Accounts to Microsoft Authenticator
Microsoft Authenticator helps you log into apps and websites more securely. This free app works by creating short codes that change every minute or so. You can add your personal Microsoft accounts, work or school accounts, and even other accounts that use these special codes. This means you can often sign in without needing to remember a password.
In 2024, using Microsoft Authenticator swaps many different passwords for these easy-to-use codes generated right on your phone. You can get the app from your phone’s app store for Android or iOS.
Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from your phone’s app store. Open the app, tap the plus icon, and select “Personal account” or “Work or school account.” Scan the QR code provided by the service you are adding.
Download and Install the App
- Go to the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
- Search for “Microsoft Authenticator” and download the app. It’s free.
Head over to the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Search for “Microsoft Authenticator” and download it – it’s free.
To get the app on your phone, download the official version from the Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iPhones). Always download directly from Microsoft to ensure you’re getting the genuine app and keeping your accounts secure.
Adding Your Personal Microsoft Account
Microsoft accounts are for everyday use with services like Outlook.com, OneDrive, and Xbox. Adding Microsoft accounts to the Microsoft Authenticator app makes signing into these services faster and more secure. The app uses two-factor authentication for an extra layer of protection.
Option 1Verify Sign-Ins with the App
You can add your Microsoft account to the Authenticator app to make signing in easier and more secure. Instead of typing a password, you’ll get a prompt on your phone to approve the sign-in. This is a great way to quickly verify it’s you when you access your account online at account.microsoft.com/security.
- Sign in to your Microsoft account online: Open a web browser on your computer and go to
account.microsoft.com/security. Sign in with your Microsoft account details. - Manage your sign-in methods: Once logged in, look for an option like “Manage how I sign in” or “Security basics.” Click it. This shows you all the ways you can prove it’s you when you log in.
- Add a new verification method: Find and select “Add a new way to sign in or verify.” Choose “Use an app.”
When you try to add your account, the Microsoft Authenticator app will show you prompts to guide you through the installation. If the Microsoft Authenticator app is not yet on your phone, a prompt to “Get it now” appears. Users must complete these installation steps first. Once the app is installed, a user may need to select an option such as “Set up a different Authenticator app.”
- Set up on your phone: Your computer screen will show a QR code. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone. Tap the plus icon (+). Select “Personal account,” then choose “Scan a QR Code.”
- Confirm on your computer: Once your phone scans the QR code, the app will add your account. Your computer should then show that setup is complete. You have now linked your personal Microsoft account to Authenticator!
Option 2Use Authenticator for Two-Step Verification
Two-step verification with the Microsoft Authenticator app adds an extra layer of security to your Microsoft account. This added security means that even if someone has your password, they still can’t get into your account without your approval on your phone. You can turn this two-step verification on at account.microsoft.com/security within your security settings.
- Go to your security settings: Go to
account.microsoft.com/securityand sign in. - Manage sign-in options: Find and click “Manage how I sign in.”
- Turn on Two-Step Verification: Scroll down to the “Two-step verification” section. Click “Turn on ” or “Set up.”
- Follow the instructions: Microsoft will guide you. This will likely involve scanning a QR code on your computer with your Authenticator app. Select “Personal account” then tap “Scan a QR Code.”
The QR code acts as a critical security step when setting up Microsoft Authenticator on your phone. This QR code confirms the Authenticator app’s installation on the correct device. Users must safeguard this QR code like a password, preventing unauthorized sharing.
- Approve the prompt: After scanning, you will get a notification on your phone through the Authenticator app. Tap “Approve” to confirm.
Option 3Go Passwordless (The Future is Here!)
You can go passwordless with the Microsoft Authenticator app, meaning you won’t need to type your password at all. Instead, you’ll just approve sign-ins with a tap on your phone, making it super quick and secure. To set this up, visit your security settings at account.microsoft.com/security and manage your sign-in methods.
- Access your security settings: Go to
account.microsoft.com/securityand sign in. - Manage sign-in methods: Select “Manage how I sign in.”
- Enable Passwordless sign-in: Scroll down to the “Passwordless account” section and choose “Turn on ” or “Set up.”
- Follow the prompts: You will be guided through a process. This usually involves verifying your identity one last time. Often, you’ll approve a notification sent to your Authenticator app.
Summary
This guide walks you through adding personal and work accounts to the Microsoft Authenticator app, covering setup using QR codes or direct sign-in methods.
How do I manually add an account to Microsoft Authenticator?
To manually add an account, open the Microsoft Authenticator app, tap the ‘+’ icon, select ‘Other account’, and then choose ‘Enter code manually’. You’ll need to input the account details and the secret key provided by the service you are adding.
Why can't i add an account to Microsoft Authenticator?
You might not be able to add an account to Microsoft Authenticator if the secret key is wrong, the QR code has expired, your internet connection is weak, or the service doesn’t support TOTP.
How to add account in Microsoft Authenticator without QR code?
To add an account without a QR code, open the Authenticator app, tap the ‘+’ icon, select ‘Other account’, and choose ‘Enter code manually’. You will then need to input the account name and the secret key provided by the service.
How do I set up Microsoft Authenticator if I got a new phone?
On your new phone, download and install Microsoft Authenticator. Open the app and select ‘Get started’. Choose ‘Restore from backup’ if you previously backed up your accounts to the cloud. Otherwise, you’ll need to re-add accounts manually or via QR codes.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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