MFA: How to Set Up Microsoft Authenticator App As Your Verification Method

This article explains the process of setting up the Microsoft Authenticator app for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), which adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. By opting for Microsoft Authenticator app verification, users receive automated prompts on their mobile devices when accessing the College's systems from off-campus locations. The step-by-step instructions provided empower users to enhance their account security and protect against unauthorized access.

Employees and Students

Step 1: Download The App

1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your Android or iOS mobile device.

Get the App (Android)                                 Get the App (iOS)

Step 2: Sign In to Your Security Info

Note: If you are not already signed in to your Outlook account, please follow the steps below.

1. Using a web browser on your computer, visit https://outlook.com/sjcd.edu.

2. Sign in using your Username and Password.

Students

Your Username is your last name dot first initial the last six numbers of your G# followed by @stu.sanjac.edu

(LastName).(FirstInitial)(LastSixG#)@stu.sanjac.edu

For example, if your name is John Doe and your G# is G00430697, your Username will be: Doe.J430697@stu.sanjac.edu

Note for Students: You create your own Password when you claim your account. This password allows you to access SOS to complete your registration and is used to access College systems after you have registered and paid. If you have changed your password since you claimed your account, please use your most recent password.

Employees

Your Username is your SJC-issued email address. The format is: firstname.lastname@sjcd.edu

3. Click on the top right icon and then click View account settings.

Step 3: Add Authenticator App

1. Select Security info from the left navigation pane or from the link in the Security info block.

2. Next, click Add sign-in method.

3. The Add a method box will appear. Choose Authenticator app from the drop-down list.

4. Click Add.

5. Click Next since you have already downloaded the Microsoft Authenticator app.

6. Click Next.

Step 4: Set Up Your Mobile App

1. Return to your mobile device and open the Microsoft Authenticator app.

2. If prompted, select Allow Notifications.

    Note: Please turn ON notifications for Authenticator to receive all sign-in requests.

3. Tap Scan a QR code. If prompted, allow Authenticator to take pictures and record video.

4. With your mobile device, Scan the QR code provided on your computer’s web browser. After you scan the QR code, tap Next.

5. Approve the notification on your mobile device.

6. Confirm your sign in with biometrics or passcode on your mobile device. You may be prompted to unlock your mobile device.

7. Once you receive confirmation that the notification was approved, click Next.

8. Microsoft Authenticator has been successfully registered.

Step 5: Select Microsoft Authenticator App As Your Default Sign-In Method

Note: You can have multiple sign-in methods, but your default sign-in method should be your preferred method for using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

1. On the Security info page, select Change next to the Default sign-in method information.

2. Select App based authentication - notification from the drop-down list and then click Confirm.

3. Your default sign-in method is now set to Microsoft Authenticator - notification.

How To Use the App

1. The screen below will appear on your computer once you sign in, reminding you to approve the sign-in request from your mobile device.

2. Once you approve, you can then securely proceed.

Below are links to instructions for setting up other available MFA verification methods:

• Phone Text
• Phone Call

Please see MFA FAQs for frequent questions and troubleshooting.

For further assistance with MFA, please contact Tech Support at 281-998-6137 or visit an on-campus Service Desk. To submit a Tech Support service ticket, click MFA Request.

Tech Support Contact Information & Hours