Skip to main content

MFA Setup for Office 365

Updated

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for setting up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to securely access your Office 365 account and company emails from outside of your workplace.

Contact Details

If you encounter any issues during setup, please contact ASK4 Solutions:

Recommended Method: Using the Microsoft Authenticator App

Step 1: Download the Microsoft Authenticator App

  • iPhone Users:

    • Open the App Store.
    • Search for Microsoft Authenticator.
    • Install the app.

  • Android Users:

    • Open the Google Play Store.
    • Search for Microsoft Authenticator.
    • Install the app.

Step 2: Begin the Setup Process

  • On your computer, open a web browser and navigate to https://aka.ms/mfasetup.
  • Log in with your Office 365 email and password.
  • When prompted, click Next.

Step 3: Configure the Mobile App

  • On the security verification page:
    • Select Mobile App from the dropdown menu.
    • Choose Receive notifications for verification.
    • Click Set Up.

Step 4: Link the App to Your Account

  • Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone.
  • Allow any requested permissions for notifications and camera access.
  • Select Work or School Account.
    • If prompted with a setup screen, cancel it and tap the + icon in the top-right corner.
  • Use your phone to scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen.

Step 5: Complete the Setup

  • On your computer, click Next to verify the connection with your phone.
  • Approve the notification sent to your phone.
  • If required, add your phone number for an additional authentication method:
    • Select United Kingdom and enter your number.

Step 6: Confirm MFA Setup

  • Once setup is complete, return to the login page.
  • MFA will now be required for all future logins to Office 365.
  • To review or update your authentication methods, revisit https://aka.ms/mfasetup.

Alternative Method: Using Call or Text

  • On your computer, go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup and log in with your credentials.
  • When prompted to configure MFA:
    • Select I want to set up a different method at the bottom of the page.
    • Choose Phone from the dropdown menu.
    • Enter your phone number and select:
      • Call me: Answer the call and follow the voice instructions.
      • Text me a code: Enter the code sent via SMS.
  • Follow the prompts to finalize the setup.

Using MFA

  • When logging into Office 365 from outside the office:
    • Approve the notification sent to your Authenticator app.
    • Alternatively, enter the code received via SMS or complete the call verification process.

Note: If the setup loops back to the beginning, close the browser and try again.