Download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app

The Microsoft Authenticator app helps you sign in to your accounts when you’re using two-step verification. Two-step verification helps you to use your accounts more securely because passwords can be forgotten, stolen, or compromised. Two-step verification uses a second step like your phone to make it harder for other people to break in to your account. You can use the Authenticator app in multiple ways:

Two-step verification: The standard verification method, where one of the factors is your password. After you sign in using your username and password, you can either approve a notification or enter a provided verification code.

• Phone sign-in. A version of two-factor verification that lets you sign in without requiring a password, using your username and your mobile device with your fingerprint, face, or PIN.
• Code generation. As a code generator for any other accounts that support authenticator apps.
• Authenticator works with any account that uses two-factor verification and supports the time-based one-time password (TOTP) standards.

Your organization might require you to use the Authenticator app to sign in and access your organization’s data and documents. Even if your user name appears in the app, the account isn’t set up as a verification method until you complete the registration. For more information, see Add your work or school account.

Download and install the app

1. Install the latest version of the Authenticator app, based on your operating system:
2. Google Android. On your Android device, go to Google Play to download and install the Authenticator app.
3. Apple iOS. On your Apple iOS device, go to the App Store to download and install the Authenticator app.