What You Need Before Starting

• A smartphone (iPhone or Android)
• The Microsoft Authenticator app installed
  • iOS App Store → “Microsoft Authenticator”
  • Google Play Store → “Microsoft Authenticator”

Please ensure that you download the official app, this has the following icon: 

When MFA Setup Appears

The first time you sign in to www.office.com, you’ll see a message saying: “More information required” This means you must set up Multi‑Factor Authentication.

Step‑by‑Step MFA Setup Instructions

1. Click “Next” on the “More information required” screen.
2. Choose “Authenticator App” Microsoft will recommend using the Authenticator app. Select Next.
3. Install the app (if not already installed)
   • On your phone, open the App Store or Google Play.
   • Search for Microsoft Authenticator.
   • Install and open the app ensuring to allow app notifications.
4. Add your work account in the app In the Authenticator app:
   • Tap + (Add account)
   • Choose Work or school account
   • Select Scan a QR code and allow the app to access your camera.
5. Scan the QR code shown on your computer screen Your phone will link your account automatically.
6. Click “Next” on your computer Microsoft will send a test notification to your phone.
7. Approve the notification on your phone Tap Approve in the Authenticator app.
8. Finish setup Once approved, your account is protected with MFA. You’ll now be taken to the Microsoft 365 home screen.

What Happens Next Time You Sign In

• Enter your email and password as normal.

• A notification will pop up on your phone.
• Open Microsoft Authenticator → tap Approve.

Troubleshooting MFA

No notification appears → Open the Authenticator app manually.

New phone? → Contact IT so we can reset your MFA.

Lost phone? → Contact IT immediately to secure your account.

Note – If you have difficulty accessing the Microsoft 365 account and do use Microsoft 365 for other services, it would be advisable to perform the above steps from within an “Incognito” or “InPrivate” browsing tab, this can be done by following the below steps depending on your web browser.

Google Chrome:

1. Open Google Chrome.
2. Click on the three vertical dots (menu) in the top right-hand corner.
3. Select New Incognito Window. A new window with a dark theme will open, indicating you’re now browsing incognito.

Microsoft Edge:

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click on the three horizontal dots (menu) in the top right corner.
3. Select New InPrivate Window. A new window with a blue theme will open, indicating you’re in InPrivate mode.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Mozilla Firefox.
2. Click on the three horizontal lines (menu) in the top right corner.
3. Select New Private Window. A new window with a purple mask icon will open, indicating you’re in private browsing mode.