Unify Technology Solutions logo

Microsoft 365 Self Setup for Multi-factor Authentication

This document will help a user through the setup of Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) for an already established Microsoft 365 account.

Multi-factor authentication provides a substantial increase to your account security by requiring a code from you when logging into untrusted devices.

  1. The first step is to install the Microsoft Authenticator App on your mobile device. In either the Android or Apple app store, search for the Microsoft Authenticator App and install it. You can also use these direct links:

 

The icon for the Microsoft Authenticator should look like the one below.

Icon of a blue padlock with a user silhouette inside, representing security and user authentication.
  1. Log into your Microsoft 365 account in a web browser by visiting https://portal.office.com
Screenshot of Microsoft Outlook sign-in page with email and password fields.
Microsoft Outlook login screen with password entry field and sign-in button.
  1. If asked to stay signed in, you can press “Yes” if you are on a company owned device.
Microsoft login prompt asking 'Stay signed in?' with Yes and No options.
  1. Once at the Office 365 dashboard, click the icon at the top right and select “View account”.
Blueprint of Bricks CF office building with detailed architectural layout.

Next, click “UPDATE INFO”

Screenshot of Microsoft account security dashboard with profile, security info, and devices.

Select the “Add sign-in method” option on the screen you are now shown.

Blueprint of Bricks CF building layout with detailed structural design.

When prompted to select a method for multi-factor authentication we recommend that you select “Authenticator App” in the drop-down. Select your method and click “Set up”.

Blueprint of Bricks CF building design with detailed layout and structure.
  1. You will now be prompted to configure your mobile app. Install the app if you have not already done so. (Note: The content displayed is for Android, but is similar on an Apple device)

Select the menu on the top-right and choose “Add account”

Screenshot of the Accounts menu showing 'Add account' option in a mobile app.

Choose “Work or school account”.

Blueprint of Bricks CF project with detailed layout and design elements.

Scan the QR code shown on your computer’s screen. The account will be added and a new code will be displayed.

Microsoft Authenticator QR code for app login verification.

You will now be sent a login request to your phone, accept it to continue.

NOTE: Only approve sign-in’s that you are expecting. If you receive a prompt to approve a sign in that was not you, press deny and notify support.

Bricks CF Blueprint showing sign-in approval interface with email and options.

Your device is now enrolled for multi-factor login. When you login to Microsoft 365, you will be prompted to accept a push notification on your mobile device. 

  1. At the Additional security verification screen, select “United States (+1)” in the drop-down window and enter your cell phone number. This alternate verification is only used if you lose access to your mobile app. Press Done when finished.
Screenshot of security verification step with country or region selection dropdown.

Once complete you will see a summary of your setup. You can close this window. When logging into a device Microsoft does not recognize, you will now receive the mobile notification asking to Deny or Approve the login. If you receive a prompt to approve a login you do not recognize, deny the login and alert support.

Screenshot of a security verification page with a red 'X' icon at the top.

Related resource: Microsoft 365 Management & Support