How to Set Up Authy for Microsoft Account Two-Step Verification
Question details
The user wants to configure Authy as their preferred two-step verification app for a Microsoft account instead of using the default Microsoft Authenticator application.
- Product
- Microsoft Account
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Enhancing Microsoft account security by enabling two-step verification using a third-party authenticator app.
- Observed behavior
- The user needs to successfully link Authy to their Microsoft account using the 'other authenticator app' QR code option during the MFA configuration process.
Ensure you have the Authy app installed on your smartphone and have your Microsoft account login credentials ready.
Configure Authy via Microsoft Account Security Settings
Link Authy to your Microsoft account by selecting the alternative authenticator option to bypass the default Microsoft Authenticator prompt.
Microsoft encourages users to download Microsoft Authenticator by default. However, standard TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) apps like Authy are fully supported if you choose the correct setup link during the configuration process.
Navigate to the Microsoft account security settings page in your web browser and sign in with your email and password.
Click on 'Advanced security options' or look for the 'Two-step verification' section on the security dashboard.
Click the option that says 'Add a new way to sign in or verify' and select 'Use an app' from the list of available methods.
When the screen prompts you to install Microsoft Authenticator, ignore the main download button. Instead, click the text link that says 'set up a different Authenticator app'.
Open the Authy app on your mobile device, tap 'Add Account' (or the plus icon), and use your camera to scan the standard QR code displayed on your computer screen.
Authy will generate a 6-digit code for your Microsoft account. Enter this code into the prompt on your computer to finalize and verify the connection.
Looking for a Free Office Suite? Try WPS Office
If you are managing your Microsoft account primarily for Office applications, consider trying WPS Office. It is a lightweight, fully-featured office suite that is completely free to download and use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use both Microsoft Authenticator and Authy at the same time?
Yes, you can configure multiple authenticator apps or verification methods. Just repeat the 'Add a new way to sign in' process for each app you wish to use.
Why isn't the QR code working when I scan it with Authy?
This usually happens if you scan the default QR code meant specifically for Microsoft Authenticator. Ensure you click the 'set up a different Authenticator app' link on the Microsoft setup page to generate a standard TOTP QR code.
What happens if I lose the phone with my Authy app?
If you have Authy's multi-device sync and backups enabled, you can easily restore your tokens on a new device. Otherwise, you must use alternative recovery methods like a backup email, SMS, or recovery codes saved in your Microsoft account.
Does WPS Office require a Microsoft account to function?
No, WPS Office does not require a Microsoft account. You can create a free WPS account or use the software entirely offline without any account linkage.
