Microsoft Authenticator message error: Enter the code displayed in the authenticator app on your mobile device​​

Question

I have been trying for several HOURS to get into my school portal but I keep getting the following message :Enter the code displayed in the authenticator app on your mobile device​​. I am NOT getting any code on my mobile device! I have an assignment that is due and I can't access my student portal

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Moved from: Microsoft Security | Microsoft Authenticator

Answer 1

Follow these steps to resolve the “Enter the code displayed in the authenticator app on your mobile device” issue when no code appears:

1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app and make sure it is unlocked
   • If the app is locked, the code or prompt may not show. Unlock the app and tap your school account entry.
2. Check notifications and silent mode
   • Ensure notifications are enabled for Microsoft Authenticator on the phone.
   • Turn off silent/do-not-disturb modes so prompts are visible.
   • If SMS codes are also configured, check text messages in case a code arrived silently.
3. Update the Authenticator app
   • Make sure the latest version of Microsoft Authenticator is installed. Older versions can cause “Authentication did not complete” or missing-code issues.
4. Verify network connectivity
   • Ensure the phone has internet access (Wi‑Fi or mobile data).
   • If one network type fails, switch between Wi‑Fi and mobile data.
   • Disconnect any VPN and try again.
5. Check device date and time
   • Ensure the phone’s date and time (and time zone) are correct. Incorrect time can cause TOTP codes or push approvals to fail.
6. Avoid repeated failed attempts
   • Multiple failed sign-in attempts can trigger Microsoft Entra multifactor authentication protections and temporarily block further attempts.
   • If many attempts were made, wait and try again later or use another MFA method if one is available.
7. If still blocked from the portal
   • For a school account, contact the institution’s IT help desk or system administrator.
   • Ask them to review Microsoft Entra sign-in logs and, if needed, reset or re-register MFA for the account so the Authenticator app can be set up again.

If the password is forgotten, use the school’s password reset process or the “Forgot password” option if exposed by the portal.

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References:

• Troubleshoot problems with Microsoft Authenticator
• Authentication did not complete
• Common problems with two-step verification for a work or school account

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Answer 2

Hello @Akhemien, Renay, 

I understand how urgent and frustrating this situation is, especially with an assignment due. Let’s go through a few quick checks to help resolve this. 

I’d like to clarify that as a forum moderator, I do not have access to user sign-in logs, cannot reset MFA, revoke access, or contact Microsoft Support on your behalf. Please consider me an end user as well, providing guidance based on experience and documented processes. 

Based on your description, please check the following: 

• Open the Microsoft Authenticator app manually and tap your school/work account to see if a code or approval prompt appears. 
• Make sure notifications for Microsoft Authenticator are enabled and your phone is not in Silent or Do Not Disturb mode. 
• Confirm your phone has internet access (you can try switching between Wi‑Fi and mobile data) and disable any VPN. 
• Ensure the Authenticator app is up to date and your phone’s date/time is set correctly. 
• Try sign-in using any alternative methods you have, such as SMS, email verification or password. 

If the issue continues, please contact your school Microsoft 365 Admin to have MFA reset or re‑registered on your account, as only they can resolve account-level issues. If you haven’t yet reached out, here’s a helpful guide to locate your Microsoft 365 administrator: How do I find my Microsoft 365 admin? - Microsoft Support  

Here are some key points to keep in mind:  

You start by contacting the person who originally provided your account, such as a teacher, school administrator, or IT support staff. If unsure who to reach out to, begin with a teacher or staff member you regularly interact with; they can assist or direct you to the right department. Additionally, use your school’s helpdesk portal, support email, or tech support channel for assistance.  

 Ask your administrator to follow these steps:    

• Go to Microsoft Entra Admin Center: https://entra.microsoft.com  
• Navigate to Entra ID > Users > All Users.  
• Select your user account.  
• Go to Authentication Methods.  
• Click "Require re-register multifactor authentication".  

This will reset your MFA settings. The next time you sign in, you’ll be prompted to set up the Authenticator app again using a QR code.  

I hope you can successfully revoke your access. If you encounter any difficulties, please feel free to let me know. Thank you and I wish you a great day!  

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