Multi-Factor Authentication: Microsoft Authenticator Application

March 3, 2022
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Microsoft Authenticator Application is one of the multi-factor authentication (MFA) options. Microsoft Authenticator is recommended for most MFA users because it offers the best experience.

For more information, see the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for Students page.

Follow the instructions below to enroll and install the Microsoft Authenticator App or watch the Adding the Multi-Factor Authenticator App to Your Mobile Device video:

Part 1: Install Microsoft Authenticator App

Microsoft Authenticator IconOn your mobile device, search, download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app (application with a blue lock icon):

Part 2: Start Registration

  1. On your device, open the Microsoft Authenticator app.
  2. On your computer, launch your preferred web browser and go to auth.wlu.ca/MFA.
  3. Click the "Enrol in MFA" button.
    Enroll in MFA button
  4. Select "Add or update MFA authentication methods."
    Add or update MFA Authentication methods link

Part 3: Add New Authentication Method

  1. On the Laurier single-sign-on page, sign in with your full @mylaurier.ca email address. Click "Next" to enter your password.
  2. Click "Next" on the "More information requried" screen.
    More information required, click Next
  3. On the subsequent Microsoft Authenticator pages, click the blue "Next" button twice until a QR code is revealed.
    Microsoft Authenticator QR code page

Part 4: Setup the Application on Your Device

  1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app.
  2. Select "I agree" in the data privacy notifcation. You can disable data collection at any time in the app settings.
  3. On the sign in with Microsoft screen, select "Skip" in the top-right hand corner of the app.
    Skip sign in with Microsoft link in Microsoft Authenticator app
  4. Select "Add Account," then select "Work or school account."

Part 5: Scan the QR Code

  1. In the app, select Scan a QR code.
  2. Allow app access to use your camera. You can remove this access later in the app settings.
    • iOS: Allow app to access your camera.
    • Android: All app to take pictures and record video.
  3. Hold your phone over the QR code displayed on your computer screen. Your Laurier account will be automatically added.

Part 6: Verify the Authentication Method

  1. On your computer screen, select the blue "Next" button.
  2. On your phone, select "Approve."

Part 7: Change Your Default Sign-In Method

  1. Select "change" next to the default sign-in method on the Security Info page under your Microsoft profile.
  2. Select "Authenticator app or hardware token – code" from the drop-down menu and click "confirm."
  3. You have now successfully registered with the Microsoft Authenticator app! Please note that you cannot delete the application off of your device as you will need it to sign in to your account when you are prompted for MFA. 
    change-default-sign-in.png

Part 8: Create Emergency Login Codes

It is important to create emergency login codes in case you're in an emergency situation and you forget, lose, or damage your mobile device or security key, or are experiencing an issue with your MFA.

Important Note

After registration, do not delete the Microsoft Authenticator application off of your device. The Microsoft Authenticator application will be required for you to sign in to your Laurier account each time you are prompted for MFA.