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Fix Microsoft Authenticator Setup Not Showing QR Code
Question details
The user is unable to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app because the system repeatedly requests in-app approval instead of displaying a QR code.
- Product
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to configure multifactor authentication (MFA) for an organization-managed Microsoft account.
- Observed behavior
- The setup process loops by asking for approval through the app, without providing a QR code or an alternative verification method to actually link the app.
Ensure you have a way to contact your organization's IT department or Microsoft 365 administrator, as resolving this specific MFA loop requires administrative privileges.
Request an MFA Registration Reset from Your Administrator
Since the security information is managed by your organization, your IT admin must clear your current MFA sessions to break the approval loop and generate a new QR code.
This issue typically occurs when an account is stuck in an authentication loop, expecting an approval from a device that is no longer linked or accessible. The only way to bypass this organizational security policy is a manual reset from the administrative side.
Reach out to your organization's Microsoft 365 administrator or IT support desk and request them to 'Require re-register MFA' for your specific account.
Once your administrator confirms the reset, log into your Microsoft 365 account on a web browser and navigate to your organization's 'Security info' page.
Click the 'Add sign-in method' button and select 'Authenticator app' from the dropdown menu.
Follow the on-screen prompts. The system will now correctly display a QR code for you to scan using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Microsoft Authenticator asking for approval instead of showing a QR code?
This happens when your account is already partially registered for MFA or stuck in an authentication loop. The system expects you to approve the login from an already linked device, often due to organization-level security policies.
Can I set up Microsoft Authenticator manually without a QR code?
Yes, if the QR code fails to scan but is visible, you can click 'Enter code manually' on the setup page to get a URL and a secret key. However, if the QR code page itself is bypassed by an approval prompt, manual entry will also be unavailable until your admin resets your MFA.
What if I am the sole administrator and I am locked out by this MFA loop?
If you are the only global administrator for your organization and cannot access your account due to an MFA loop, you will need to contact Microsoft Data Protection support directly by phone to verify your identity and regain tenant access.
