Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) is an authentication method that requires the user to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource such as an online application.

A factor in authentication is a way of confirming your identity when you try to sign in. For example, a password is one kind of factor, it's a thing you know. The three most common kinds of factors are:

• Something you know - Like a password, or a memorized PIN
• Something you have - Like a smartphone, or a secure USB key.
• Something you are - Like a fingerprint, or facial recognition.

Setting up Multi-factor Authentication (For the first time)

Using Microsoft Authenticator

• Download Microsoft Authenticator app in Google Play or the App Store.
• Sign into your Office 365 email account in a different screen device (ex. PC, Laptop)
• You will be prompted with this message:

• Click Next and follow steps to set up your authentication method.

Microsoft Authenticator App

Hit Next

• You will be prompted with a QR code. Scan the QR code with your authenticator application on your smartphone.

• On your authenticator app look for the (+) in the right-hand side.
• Choose Work or School Account and scan the QR code.

•  Your account should automatically populate the Authenticator app. See sample screen

• Click Next on your computer.
• Your computer will then prompt you to accept the notification as below:

• You will be prompted to approve the notification by matching a number shown on your computer to your authenticator application on your smartphone device.

• Once, your Authenticator application is set up. Click Next

• You will be brought back to the Office365 log-in screen. The only addition is now whenever you login, you will be prompted with a notification on your phone (via Microsoft Authenticator app) to approve the login. Thank you for keeping your account secure from threat actors!