How to Remove all accounts from Microsoft Authenticator
To remove all accounts from Microsoft Authenticator, you can either delete and then reinstall the app, or delete each account one by one inside the app. This is especially helpful if you’re switching devices or want to make sure no old account information is left lying around.
Microsoft Authenticator is a mobile app that offers two-factor authentication, or 2FA. It adds an extra layer of security to your Microsoft accounts, beyond your password.
To start fresh, you’ll need to uninstall the application from your current device. If you’re migrating to a new phone, you’ll then install the app on the new device. For a complete reset without switching phones, you can reinstall the app after deleting it.
To remove all accounts, clear the app’s data via your phone’s Settings menu on Android. On iPhone, offload the app through Settings and then reinstall it from the App Store. Both methods reset the app to its initial state.
Why Remove All Accounts?
You might want to remove all accounts for a few reasons. If you’re selling your old phone, you definitely don’t want your accounts on it. Or, if you’re having trouble with the app, a reset can fix things. It’s like giving the app a clean slate.
What Happens When You Remove All Accounts?
Removing all accounts from Microsoft Authenticator makes the app like new, completely empty, just like when you first downloaded it.
Removing All Accounts: The Full Reset
The simplest way to remove every account from the Authenticator app is to do a full reset, which clears all the app’s data and makes it like new.
Clearing App Data on Android
Clearing all data for the Microsoft Authenticator app on your Android phone is simple and resets the app completely. You can do this directly through your phone’s settings menu to remove all accounts.
- Unlock your Android phone. Find the Settings app. It usually looks like a gear icon.
- Scroll down and tap on Apps (or it might say “Applications” or “App Management”). You’ll see a list of all your apps here.
- Scroll until you find Authenticator and tap on it.
- On the Authenticator app’s info screen, look for Storage or Storage & cache and tap it.
- You’ll see options to manage the app’s storage. Tap on Clear data.
- A message will pop up asking if you’re sure. Warning: This action is permanent! Tap OK or Confirm to continue.
After this, opening Microsoft Authenticator will be like downloading it for the first time, with no accounts inside.
Offloading the App on iPhone
Resetting the Microsoft Authenticator app on your iPhone involves offloading it first, then reinstalling it to clear all its data. This process removes the app while keeping your settings, ready for a fresh start.
- Unlock your iPhone. Go to the main Settings app.
- Tap on General, then tap iPhone Storage.
- Scroll down the list of apps until you find Authenticator and tap on it.
- You’ll see an option that says Offload App. Tap this. This removes the app but keeps its data for now.
- Tip: Offloading removes the app, but the next step is what truly resets it. Don’t skip it!
- Now, go back to your iPhone’s Home Screen. Find the Authenticator app icon. It might have a small cloud icon next to it. Tap this icon to reinstall the app.
- Important Warning: Just like on Android, this process removes all accounts and resets the app. There is no going back. Once you reinstall and open the app, it will be empty. Your device won’t be able to verify sign-ins until you add accounts again.
By offloading and then reinstalling, you get the same result as clearing data on Android: a completely fresh Authenticator app.
Summary
To remove all accounts from Microsoft Authenticator, you reset the app itself, clearing all its data and returning it to its original state.
How do I remove all accounts from the Microsoft Authenticator app?
To remove all accounts, you can either delete the Microsoft Authenticator app from your device and reinstall it, or manually delete each account individually within the app's settings. This provides a clean slate for the application.
Why can't I remove an account from Microsoft Authenticator?
If you're unable to remove an account, ensure you are following the correct procedure within the app. Sometimes, a pending sync or a temporary app glitch might prevent removal. Restarting the app or your device can often resolve this issue.
How do I clear my Microsoft Authenticator cache?
Clearing the cache for Microsoft Authenticator involves uninstalling and then reinstalling the app. There isn't a direct cache-clearing option within the app itself. This process effectively resets the app to its default state.
How do I remove old devices from Microsoft Authenticator?
To remove old devices, you need to access your Microsoft account security settings online. Navigate to 'Advanced security options' and under 'Additional security verification,' you can manage and remove devices associated with your account.
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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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