Microsoft 365 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Overview

Up to now you only had a password to protect your account. If someone got hold of your password (an authentication factor), this person could use your username and password to impersonate you. If the system would request a second or third unique factor, taking over your account is a lot harder. There are 3 factors of authentication:

  1. Something you know: your password
  2. Something you have: your (smart)phone
  3. Something you are: your fingerprint

As you can see, with MFA just stealing your password will not be enough to take control of your account. 

Issue

Microsoft 365 is currently using Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), relying on a password and a phone. In short it can be explained in the following steps:

  1. Your Office 365 account gets enabled for MFA
  2. Next time you logon to an Microsoft 365 account you need to configure MFA (this requires a web browser)
  3. You identify the methods of the second authentication. If you have an iPhone or Android we recommend the Authenticator App (see screenshot of the app on an iPhone)
  4. After you complete configuration, MFA will be invoked each time you connect to an Microsoft 365 service from a new device.
Troubleshooting

If you have a smartphone, we recommend using the Microsoft Authenticator App. It makes using Microsoft 365 MFA quick and easy. Install it ahead of time from the:

If you want to use Google Authenticator:

  1. Choose Google Authenticator:

    • Instead of selecting Microsoft Authenticator, look for an option like "I want to use a different authenticator app" or similar wording. 
    • This will display a QR code. 

  2. 3. Scan the QR code:

    • Open the Google Authenticator app on your phone. 
    • Tap the "+" icon to add a new account. 
    • Select "Scan a QR code" and point your phone's camera at the QR code displayed on your computer screen. 

  3. 4. Complete the setup:

    • Once scanned, Google Authenticator will display a code. 
    • Enter this code in the Microsoft account setup process to confirm the connection. 
    • Your Microsoft account is now linked to Google Authenticator

Also, when you use your fingerprint to unlock the smartphone, you are truly using 3-factor authentication. 

Additional Information

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the Help Desk at:

Phone: 315-568-3911
Email helpdesk@northeastcollege.edu

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