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How to Recover Microsoft Authenticator QR Codes After Replacing Your Phone
Question details
The user needs to recover or generate a new QR code to set up Microsoft Authenticator on a newly replaced or reset mobile device.
- Product
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- The user replaced or reset their smartphone and lost their Microsoft Authenticator app configurations.
- Observed behavior
- The user is unable to log in because the new phone requires a QR code to link the Authenticator app to their Microsoft account.
Ensure you have access to a secondary authentication method (such as an alternate email or SMS) or have the contact information for your organization's IT support.
Generate a New QR Code via Security Settings
Use this method if you can still access your account using an alternate verification method, allowing you to manually remove the old device and add the new one.
Navigate to the Microsoft Account Security page (or your organization's My Sign-Ins page). On the login screen, click 'Sign in another way' to authenticate using an alternate method like SMS or email.
Locate the 'Microsoft Authenticator' entry associated with your old phone in your list of active sign-in methods, and click 'Delete' to remove it from your account.
Click the 'Add sign-in method' button, select 'Authenticator app' from the dropdown menu, and click 'Add' to begin the setup wizard.
Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your new phone, select 'Add account', choose the appropriate account type (Personal, Work, or School), and scan the newly generated QR code displayed on your computer screen.
Contact Your Organization Administrator for an MFA Reset
Use this method if you are stuck in a sign-in loop where the system requires approval from the Authenticator app on the old phone you no longer possess.
Experience Seamless Productivity with WPS Office
While resolving access issues with Microsoft services, ensure your productivity never stops by using WPS Office. It is a powerful, free, and lightweight Office suite that allows you to create, edit, and view documents without complex account verification barriers.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded setup file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to install the software.
- 3. Open and edit files: Launch WPS Office and immediately start opening or editing your existing Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I restore Microsoft Authenticator without scanning a new QR code?
If you previously turned on Cloud Backup for your Authenticator app on your old phone, you can recover your account credentials on the new phone. Tap 'Begin recovery' during the app's initial setup and sign in with your personal Microsoft account. Note that work and school accounts may still require a new QR code or additional verification after recovery.
What should I do if my phone camera cannot scan the QR code?
When setting up the Authenticator app, look for the 'Can't scan image' or 'Enter code manually' option on your mobile screen. The setup screen on your computer will display a 9-digit code and a specific URL that you can type directly into the app instead of scanning.
Why does Microsoft keep asking me to approve the sign-in on the Authenticator app I no longer have?
This happens when the Authenticator app is set as your default or only authentication method. On the sign-in screen, click 'Sign in another way' to choose an alternate method, like an SMS text or a phone call. If no alternate methods are available, you must contact your organization's IT admin to reset your MFA settings.
