Setting Up and Using Microsoft Authenticator for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Mike Wolkowitz · Updated ·
Accounts & Security
🛡️ Multi-factor adds a quick phone tap to your login, so your account stays yours even if someone learns your password. Setup takes about five minutes.
▶️ Watch first
How to set up Microsoft Authenticator
Official Microsoft video
⚠️ Students use Microsoft Authenticator (these steps). If you are faculty or staff, you use Duo instead, see Set up Duo for employees.

📲 Step 1 · Install the app

  1. On your phone, open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android).
  2. Search for Microsoft Authenticator and install it.
  3. Open the app and allow notifications when asked.

🔗 Step 2 · Add your student account

  1. On a computer, go to myaccount.microsoft.com and open Security info, then sign in with your student account.
  2. Choose Add sign-in method and pick Authenticator app.
  3. In the app, tap +, choose Work or school account, then Scan a QR code.
  4. Scan the code on your screen and approve the test notification.

✅ Step 3 · Approve with number matching

From now on, when you sign in:

  1. A two-digit number appears on your computer screen.
  2. Open the Authenticator notification on your phone, type that number, and tap Approve.
💡 No notification? Open the app, find your student account, and type the 6-digit code it shows when prompted.
📱 Getting a new phone? Add the new one before you wipe the old one. It is a two-minute switch instead of a help desk call.
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Need help?
Contact the Student Support Help Desk: 630-942-2999, studenthelp@dupage.edu, or submit a request online.

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