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How to Sign In with a QR Code and Set Up MFA for Microsoft 365
Question details
The user needs to configure multi-factor authentication (MFA) for their Microsoft 365 account by scanning a QR code with an authenticator app.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Setting up account security using a mobile authenticator app to enable multi-factor authentication for work or school emails.
- Observed behavior
- The user requires step-by-step instructions to locate, scan the QR code, and finalize the MFA registration.
Ensure you have a smartphone ready to download the authenticator app, and that you are logged into your Microsoft 365 account on a separate computer screen to view the setup QR code.
Set Up MFA Using the Microsoft Authenticator App
This is the standard and most secure method to configure multi-factor authentication for your Microsoft 365 account using the official app.
Microsoft highly recommends using the Microsoft Authenticator app for work and school accounts, as it supports secure push notifications alongside standard verification codes.
Install the Microsoft Authenticator app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on your mobile device.
Open the Microsoft Authenticator app, tap the '+' icon or select 'Add account', and choose 'Work or school account'.
Select the option to 'Scan a QR code' on your phone and point your camera at the QR code currently displayed on your computer screen by your organization.
Follow the on-screen prompts on your computer. An approval notification will be sent to your phone; tap 'Approve' to finalize the MFA registration.
Contact Your IT Administrator for a New QR Code
If you cannot find the QR code or your setup session has expired, your IT administrator needs to reset your MFA configuration.
Experience Seamless Productivity with WPS Office
While setting up Microsoft 365 MFA is necessary for organizational security, you might just need a fast, reliable, and hassle-free office suite for your daily document tasks. WPS Office is a powerful, free alternative that lets you view, edit, and create documents without complex authentication hurdles.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the setup file and follow the quick installation instructions on your computer.
- 3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office to immediately start working on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there no QR code displaying on my screen?
If you don't see a QR code, your organization may have restricted MFA setup, or you might be on the wrong settings page. You need to access the 'Security info' section under your Microsoft account profile. If it still doesn't appear, contact your IT admin to reset your MFA registration.
Can I use a different authenticator app instead of Microsoft Authenticator?
Yes, you can use third-party apps like Google Authenticator or Authy. During the MFA setup process on your computer, click the link that says 'I want to use a different authenticator app' to generate a universally compatible QR code.
What should I do if my phone camera is broken and cannot scan the QR code?
If you cannot scan the QR code, click the 'Can't scan image?' link located directly below the QR code on your computer screen. This will reveal a Secret Key and a URL that you can manually type into your authenticator app to link the account.
Will I need to scan a QR code every time I sign into my email?
No. The QR code is exclusively used once to link your Microsoft 365 account to the authenticator app. For all future sign-ins, you will simply receive a push notification to approve or be asked to enter a 6-digit code generated by the app.
