Microsoft Authenticator - Getting Started

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

  • If you want to use text messages instead of the app, click "I want to set up a different method", as highlighted by the red box in the screenshot below.

    Screenshot of the initial MFA setup with "I want to set up a different method" highlighted
     
  • Choose Phone for "Which method would you like to use" then click Confirm.
  • Enter your cell phone number then hit Next as shown in the screenshot below.
    Screenshot of the MFA phone setup window where it asks for a phone number
     
  • You will get a text message with a six digit code.  Enter that to verify your login.

 

With either the app or text message option, 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 - and will not work in classrooms or computer labs on-campus as those are set to reset every time they restart.


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

 

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