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How to Enter a Microsoft Authenticator Code Without Scanning a QR Code
Question details
The user needs to bypass the QR code scanning step to manually enter a verification code in the Microsoft Authenticator app.
- Product
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Setting up two-factor authentication on a device where scanning a QR code is not possible, such as when the QR code is displayed on the same device.
- Observed behavior
- The Authenticator app appears to only display the QR-code scanning option, preventing the user from entering the setup code manually.
Ensure you have the secret setup key (a long string of letters and numbers) provided by the service you are trying to secure, usually found right next to or beneath the QR code on their security page.
Post Your Issue on the Microsoft Q&A Forum
If your app is missing the manual entry button due to account-specific restrictions or bugs, specialized support from Microsoft is the best path forward.
Certain enterprise configurations or specific app versions might hide the manual entry option, forcing users into a QR-scan loop. In these cases, community specialists and Microsoft engineers can provide account-specific authentication setup guidance.
Open your web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft Q&A community platform.
Use the search bar and filter by the 'Microsoft Authenticator' tag to see if other users have resolved the exact same missing-manual-entry issue.
Click the 'Ask a question' button. Provide detailed information, including the fact that your app only shows the QR-code scanning option and mention the type of account (Work, School, or Personal) you are trying to add.
Use the Built-In 'Enter Code Manually' Option
For most standard setups, the manual entry button is available directly beneath the camera scanning screen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find the manual setup code for Microsoft Authenticator?
The manual setup code (also called a secret key) is provided by the website or service you are trying to secure. It is usually displayed on the same page as the QR code. Look for a link that says 'Can't scan the barcode?' or 'View secret key' to reveal it.
Why doesn't the Authenticator app show a manual entry option?
This can happen if you selected a specific Microsoft account type that mandates a push-notification setup, or if your organization's IT policy restricts manual entry. Ensure you choose 'Other account' if you are setting up a non-Microsoft service like Facebook or Google.
Can I set up Microsoft Authenticator on the same phone I use to view the QR code?
Yes. Since you cannot scan a QR code displayed on your own screen, you must copy the provided text-based secret key and use the 'Enter code manually' option inside the Microsoft Authenticator app.
