How to Set Up Microsoft Authenticator When the QR Code is on the Same iPad
Question details
The user needs to configure Microsoft Authenticator on an iPad, but the setup QR code is displayed on the same device, making it impossible to scan with the device's camera.
- Product
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Setting up two-factor authentication (2FA) for an account using a QR code.
- Observed behavior
- The iPad cannot scan the QR code displayed on its own screen, halting the authenticator setup process.
Ensure you have access to a secondary device (such as a smartphone or computer) or locate the manual setup code provided by your account administrator.
Use a Secondary Device to Display the QR Code
The most straightforward solution is to display the QR code on a different screen, allowing you to scan it with the iPad's camera.
Since the Microsoft Authenticator app requires a live camera feed to scan a QR code, you cannot scan a code that is physically on the same screen you are using.
Use a computer or another smartphone to log into the account that requires two-factor authentication setup.
Navigate to the security or MFA settings of your account and initiate the Authenticator setup to display the QR code on the second device's screen.
Launch the Microsoft Authenticator app on your iPad and tap the '+' icon in the upper right corner to add a new account.
Select the appropriate account type (Work/school or Personal), tap 'Scan a QR code', and point your iPad's camera at the screen of the secondary device.
Enter the Setup Code Manually on the iPad
If you do not have a second device available, you can bypass the camera scanning requirement by entering a manual text code.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I screenshot the QR code and scan it from my iPad's photo gallery?
No, Microsoft Authenticator requires a live camera feed to scan a QR code. It does not have a feature to import a screenshot directly from your photo library. You must either display the screenshot on another screen or use the manual code entry method.
Where do I find the manual setup code if it isn't visible?
When generating the QR code for setup, there is usually a clickable link directly beneath it labeled 'Can't scan image?' or 'Enter code manually'. Clicking this link will reveal the text-based secret key and URL necessary for manual setup.
Why isn't Microsoft Authenticator recognizing the manual code?
Ensure you are entering the code exactly as shown, without any extra spaces. Additionally, confirm that the time and date on your iPad are set to update automatically, as authenticator verification codes are highly time-sensitive.
Can I use Apple's built-in password manager for 2FA instead of Microsoft Authenticator?
Yes, if your organization allows third-party authenticators, you can copy the manual setup key and paste it into the iPad's built-in Passwords settings. This allows your iPad to generate verification codes without needing a separate app.
