How do I set up MFA for the first time using the Authenticator App?

Overview

IT Services strongly recommends using the Microsoft Authenticator app as your preferred MFA authenticator. The benefits of the app include:

• Convenient, one-touch push notifications to verify sign-in.

• A changing key token that can be used even when your device has no connectivity.

• Simple, lightweight installation on a smartphone or tablet.

Before you begin...

Make sure you have a mobile device, such as a smart phone or tablet, that is connected to Wi-fi or a cellular data service. You will install the Microsoft Authenticator app on this mobile device.

Video Instructions

Step-by-step instructional video

Written Instructions

1. The first time you log in, you will be greeted with a prompt indicating the system requires more information to keep your account secure. Click Next.

   

2. On the next screen, you will be prompted to set up additional security verification. Select I want to set up a different method at the bottom of the box.

   

3. This will bring up a Choose a different method prompt, select Authenticator app from the drop-down menu.

   

4. You will then be greeted by the following screen, click Next.

   

5. On your mobile device, go to your app store, then search for and install the Microsoft authenticator app. Allow the app to have the required permissions when prompted.
6. Use your camera in the app to scan the QR code from your computer screen. Once your MSU Denver account appears in the app, you can click on your account and see there is a six-digit code that changes every 30 seconds.

   

7. Return you your computer and Click Next. You will be greeted by the below screen, click Next again.

   

8. This will prompt a test verification, You will see a prompt on your device. Go ahead a verify that prompt. If the verification was successful you will see the following screen.
9. Return you your computer and Click Done.

Result

Your MFA device is now set up to use notifications for verification through the Microsoft Authenticator app. You will approve these notifications any time you log in to MSU Denver single sign-on web services.