Microsoft Authenticator - Getting Started

For general information on the Microsoft Authentication system, see the page - Microsoft Authenticator - Frequently Asked Questions.

For information on the sign up process for this service, see below:

Activation process

  1. When your account is enabled for the Microsoft authenticator system - you will see the following screen when logging in.  Click "Next" on that screen.
    Screenshot of the initial prompt to setup the Microsoft MFA
     
  2. When you click "Next" you'll be presented with the recommended option, to use the free Microsoft Authenticator app.  If you are going to use that app, see the "Microsoft Authenticator Setup" heading below.  If you are going to use text messages, then skip to "Text Message Setup" heading below.

    Screenshot of the initial MFA setup screen with 'next' for proceeding with the MS Authenticator app, and 'I want to setup a different method' for the SMS option.
     

 

Microsoft Authenticator Setup

  • First, download the Microsoft Authenticator app via the "Download now" button.  That will bring you to the iPhone and Android download links, then click Next.
  • Follow the prompts to set up the app, which will include scanning the QR code from the authenticator app.

    Screenshot of the MS website with a
     
  • When done, you'll see a notice saying the notification was approved, and it is all set up.

 

Text Message Setup

  • This is still an option as of September 2026 but we strongly recommend against it.  Microsoft is removing this option for login verification in early February 2027.  If you do not have a smartphone that can use the free Microsoft Authenticator app, please contact the Service Desk (servicedesk@newpaltz.edu).

 

Passkeys

This is another option, but currently, Microsoft does not allow an account to be enrolled with a passkey without another authentication option like the Microsoft Authenticator app.  We expect this to change sometime in Fall 2026 or early 2027.  We will be sending more information about Passkeys at that time.


Staying Logged In

You can reduce the amount of times you need to do this verification by clicking "Yes" when asked to "Stay signed in?".  This is not recommended for shared computers.
 

Support

If you have any issues - please contact the Service Desk (servicedesk@newpaltz.edu or 845-257-HELP).

 

Print Article