MFA - Initial Multi-Factor Authentication Setup

Summary

This guide walks you through the initial setup of Microsoft Authenticator for CWU account Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

 

 

 

Steps for Downloading Microsoft Authenticator App

Step One: Open your phone's app store and download Microsoft Authenticator:

• Get it on Google Play (Android)
• Get it on Apple App Store (iOS)

 

 

Steps for Installing MFA on a Computer or Second Device

Step Two: On a computer or second device, go to: https://aka.ms/mfasetup

          

          Enter URL in browser's address bar.

 

Step Three: Enter your CWU user name (e.g. username@cwu.edu).

Enter your CWU username and click Next.

 

Step Four: You will see a prompt titled More information required. Click Next to proceed.

Click Next.

 

Step Five: If the app is installed, click Next to display a QR code. If not, go back to Step 1.

Click Next if the app is already installed on your phone.

 

Steps for Setup Microsoft Authenticator Using QR Code

Step Six: Open the Microsoft Authenticator App on your phone.

•  Click "Add Work or School Account" then, select "Scan QR code." 
• Allow the Microsoft Authenticator app to access your camera.

          

 

 

• If these options do not show up, press the white plus sign in the top right hand corner in the blue bar. Tap the plus icon +.

          

          

 

Step Seven: Scan the QR code, then click Next.

 

Step Eight: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete setup.

 

 

Adding Your Phone Number to Microsoft Authenticator

The Service Desk suggests you have at minimum Both the Authenticator Application on your smart phone as well as your personal cell phone number.  

Having both will keep you from getting locked out of your account if you ever get a new phone or factory reset your current phone.  

 

Step One: On your phone, computer, or tablet open a web browser and navigate to: aka.ms/mysecurityinfo.

 

Step Two:

1. Enter your CWU username (example - Username@cwu.edu).
2. Select Next.

 

Step Three: 

1. Enter your CWU password.
2. Select Sign in.

 

Step Four: Once you are taken to the "Security info" page, select Add sign-in method.

 

Step Five: Select Phone from the dropdown menu. 

 

Step Six: 

1.  Select your country under Country code.
2.  Enter your phone number under Phone number.
3.  Select Next.

 

Step Seven: Select the pound key (#) when Microsoft calls you to verify your number. 

 

Step Eight: Select Done.

 

 

FAQ

Question One: What do I do if I am experiencing issues with the Multi-Factor Authentication process?

Question Two: What do I do if I get a new phone?

• If you are continuously experiencing issues with the Multi-Factor Authentication process or purchase a new phone, please call the CWU Service Desk at 509-963-2001.

 

 

Additional Resources

Here is a related article on MFA - Unable to use Microsoft Authenticator Method.

 

Submit a Service Request

• Submit a service request.

• If you need assistance with the above process, you can submit an online request and our Information Services staff will reach out to you. 

 

• You can also call the CWU Service Desk at 509-963-2001.

 

References

• Some steps in this guide reference content from official vendor documentation. For full details, see Microsoft Support.