Student Email Accounts Microsoft MFA Instructions

This article covers how to set up MFA. Microsoft Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) creates an additional layer of security when logging into your Microsoft Office 365 account. This additional security is associated with something in your possession, such as a personal smartphone, that would be unavailable to someone who gained access to your Microsoft Office 365 account.

Student Email accounts Microsoft MFA Instructions

Microsoft Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) creates an additional layer of security when logging into your Microsoft Office 365 account. This additional security is associated with something in your possession, such as a personal smart phone, that would be unavailable to someone who gained access to your Microsoft Office 365 account. 

The first factor in MFA is your account password. The most convenient second factor option is to use the Microsoft Authenticator mobile app on your smart phone to approve the sign-in. Other options are detailed in “How does Microsoft Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) work?” that follows.

If the wrong code or no code is entered, your Microsoft Office 365 account cannot be accessed. 

How does Microsoft Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) work?

Microsoft MFA requires that you specify how you want to provide the second factor as part of your Microsoft Office 365 account log in.

Microsoft MFA provides the following second factor options:

1. A (free) Microsoft Authenticator mobile app running on your iOS or Android smart phone that requests that you confirm your log in attempt. This is the most convenient option.
2. A text message sent to your smart phone or SMS text-capable telephone providing a code to enter in the login window .
3. An automated voice call to a designated telephone number providing a code to enter to sign-on.

Even if you are not familiar with Microsoft MFA, you’ve probably used MFA already if you’ve logged into a website that sent a code to your phone, which you then entered to access to your account.

Download the Microsoft MFA app

Apple App Store

Google Play store

How-to Instructions and Training Resources

The following training and documentation resources are available on YouTube and the Microsoft website: 

Set up multi-factor authentication with a mobile device (YouTube) 

Setting up your verification methods

Managing your verification settings

Managing your connected devices

Setting up Microsoft Authenticator Mobile App

Signing into your Microsoft Account

Help and Support Resources

For help with using Microsoft Multi-factor Authentication, see the following Microsoft web pages:

Microsoft MFA Self Help

Microsoft Authenticator Help

For help with your login credentials, such as password resets and getting locked out of your account, please visit https://loginhelp.sdstate.edu/ or contact the SDSU Support Desk for additional assistance.

FAQ

Can I change my Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) preferences?
Yes, see: For how to instructions, see Change your two-factor verification method and settings on the Microsoft website. To change your preferences, visit https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info

Who do I contact for help with Microsoft MFA issues?
Who do I contact for help with Microsoft Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) authentication issues? Check the What is the Additional verification page? topics and Common problems with two-factor verification and your work or school account available on the Microsoft website to see if you can find a solution to your issue. If not contact the SDSU Support Desk.