How to setup Microsoft Authenticator

In this guide, we will show you the steps on how to setup Microsoft Authenticator. Microsoft Authenticator is a mobile application developed by Microsoft that provides two-factor authentication (2FA) and secure account management. Please see “Rolling out Multi-factor Authentication – Recommendations“, “Windows Cached Credentials: How does cached domain logon work, and 802.1x and EAP Authentication Types.

Microsoft Authenticator enhances security by requiring a second form of verification when accessing accounts. This makes it more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access.

Also, see How to add a device to your Microsoft Account, and “How to Change Two-Factor Authentication Methods in Microsoft 365/Office 365“. Here is Cybersecurity Tips to Secure Synology NAS against Ransomware.

Set up Microsoft Authenticator

Download and install an authenticator app from your mobile device’s app store. Some options include Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, and Authy.

Set up a new account using the QR code and verify the configuration by entering the code the authenticator app provides. Press the Verify button before the code expires.

Note: You must have any of these authenticators installed to perform this operation. Here are the steps for setting up Microsoft Authenticator. If you already have this setup, kindly skip this part.

- Launch the Microsoft Authentication App
- Tap the three dot menu button and 
- Select Add Account
- Click on Other accounts (google, Facebook, etc.,), 
- Since we do not have the QR code to scan we will have to type this in manually.
- Click on Enter the Code Manually.
- Set the Account name: Here I used PleasantReset
- Enter the “The Secret Key”: This is the value for this user as shown in the image above ExxxxMKxxxxxxxxxx2xxxxxM
- Click on Finish. If successful, this message will be displayed.

I hope you found this article useful on ‘How to setup Microsoft Authenticator”. Please feel free to leave a comment below.