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How to Re-Add Microsoft Authenticator After Accidentally Removing It
Question details
The user accidentally uninstalled or removed the Microsoft Authenticator app before deleting its registration from their account, resulting in a login loop where the system asks for a verification code from the now-unavailable app.
- Product
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to log in to a Microsoft account or reinstall the authenticator app without having access to the previous authentication setup.
- Observed behavior
- The user is blocked from signing in because the system requires a verification code from the deleted Microsoft Authenticator app, preventing them from setting it up again.
Ensure you have access to any backup verification methods, such as an alternate email address or phone number, before starting the account recovery process.
Contact Your IT Administrator (Work or School Accounts)
The most effective solution for enterprise or educational accounts where multi-factor authentication (MFA) settings are managed centrally by an organization.
If you are using a work or school account, you cannot reset the MFA settings yourself once the app is deleted. Your organization's IT department must intervene to clear your old device registration.
Reach out to your organization's IT help desk or system administrator.
Ask the administrator to revoke your old Microsoft Authenticator registration in the Microsoft Entra admin center and require re-registration.
Once the admin has reset your MFA, sign in to your Microsoft account on a web browser. You will be prompted to set up your security information again.
Open the reinstalled Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone, select 'Add account', choose 'Work or school account', and scan the new QR code displayed on your computer screen.
Use Alternate Verification for Personal Accounts
Use this method if you are locked out of a personal Microsoft account (such as Outlook.com, Xbox, or Skype).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recover my Microsoft Authenticator accounts from a backup?
Yes, if you previously enabled Cloud Backup (on iOS) or Cloud Sync (on Android) within the Authenticator app settings before deleting it. When you reinstall the app, select 'Begin Recovery' on the initial setup screen and sign in with your personal Microsoft account to restore your saved credentials.
What happens if I don't have an alternate verification method for my personal account?
If you cannot use the Authenticator app and have no alternate email or phone number set up, you will need to fill out the Microsoft Account Recovery form. Note that this process can take up to 30 days to complete for security reasons, during which your account will remain restricted.
How do I prevent getting locked out of Authenticator in the future?
To prevent future lockouts, always ensure the cloud backup feature is turned on in your Authenticator app settings. Additionally, keep at least two active verification methods (such as a phone number and an alternate email address) linked to your Microsoft account at all times.
