Introduction:
This article explains how to setup multi factor authentication (MFA) also known as two factor authentication on your Microsoft 365 account.
Prerequisites:
Before we begin you will need;
- MFA to be enabled by your system administrator.
- Your Microsoft 365 Email Address.
- Your Microsoft 365 password.
- A compatible Smart Phone with access to the App Store.
Technical Level:
Mid
Multi factor authentication (MFA) is a good way of protecting your account from unauthorised access. Your password can easily be compromised by all sorts of ways. The most common is typing passwords in to, what you think to be trusted, sites or security prompts sent via emails. Others include using the same password for other services, that in turn, have been compromised. MFA will add an extra layer of security to your account, it will mean you will need to present a code or authorise your login by an app. So unless the person trying to access your access also has your phone your account will be secure.
1. Installing the Smartphone App.
You will need access to the App Store on your Smartphone. You may need to login to in your App Store account to download apps to your device. If you do not know your App Store login details for your device you will have to use MFA by SMS.
Search for “Authenticator app” and select and install the Microsoft Authenticator
Don’t open the app just yet..
2. Initiate the MFA Setup
You can either wait for one of your devices to log you out and follow the setup or initiate it yourself. To initiate it yourself simply go to www.office.com (if already signed in – sign out).
Click Sign in.
Enter your email Address
Then your password.
You will then get a prompt to say “your organisation needs more information to keep your account secure” click Next.
Then you will be presented with a QR code image on your screen.
3. Configure mobile app
Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile.
First time setup we would advise you click OK on all the notifications.
Tap Add account “+” sign at the top right.
Select “Work or School Account”.
Tap “Scan QR code”
Point your Smart phone camera to the QR image on the screen.
It will now add the account to your app.
Any requests to access your account will now need to be approved by you in the app.
You’re done.
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