Authenticator request code from authenticator itself

Question

Hi,

I am having trouble accessing my school email due to a two-factor authentication (2FA) issue. Since my university implemented 2FA, I can no longer sign in.

Whenever I try to log in on my phone or computer, Outlook prompts me for a code from the authenticator app. However, when I attempt to connect my school account to the authenticator app to receive a code, the app requires a code as well. So the app requires a code from the app. Without registering my school account, I can't obtain a code from the app to allow me to sign in to my account.

Can anyone please help me!

Thank you!

Answer 1

It sounds like you're experiencing a common issue with two-factor authentication (2FA) when trying to access your school email. Here are some steps you can take to resolve the problem:

1. Check for App Passwords: If your school account is set up to require app passwords for non-browser applications, you may need to create an app password to use with the authenticator app. This is especially relevant if your account does not support modern authentication.
2. Use Alternative Authentication Methods: If you are unable to register your school account in the authenticator app, consider using other methods for receiving your 2FA code. You can opt for receiving a verification code via SMS or a phone call if those options are available.
3. Contact IT Support: Since this issue is related to your school account, it would be beneficial to reach out to your university's IT support. They can provide specific guidance and may be able to reset your 2FA settings or help you register your account in the authenticator app.
4. Reinstall the Authenticator App: If the app is malfunctioning, try uninstalling and reinstalling it. This can sometimes resolve issues related to account registration.
5. Check for Updates: Ensure that both your authenticator app and your device's operating system are up to date, as this can affect functionality.

By following these steps, you should be able to regain access to your school email.

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References:

• Authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID - Microsoft Authenticator app
• Manage and support user accounts

Answer 2

Hi @Kiaraaa,

Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum, and I’m sorry to hear you're having trouble accessing your school account due to Microsoft Authenticator app.

To better assist you, could you please clarify the following:

• Have you previously set up the Microsoft Authenticator app on any device for this account, or is this your first time trying to sign in?   
• If so, are you currently using the same device where you originally registered the Authenticator app? Have you recently switched to a new device?

While we wait for your answer, here are some steps you can try:

1/ You can follow this official guide to get started: How to add your accounts to Microsoft Authenticator - Microsoft Support  

2/ You can also refer to this article for instructions on signing in using the app: Sign in using Microsoft Authenticator - Microsoft Support 

3/ Since you are using a school email address, the MFA settings are managed by your school's IT department. If you need assistance with recovering access to your account, you will need to contact them directly to resolve this. 

Please contact your school's IT Help Desk or support team and explain the situation. Specifically ask them to “Reset my MFA settings or allow me to re-register for MFA". This is a standard request, and your IT team should be able to assist you with it.

You can also share the steps in this Microsoft article with them so they can help reset your MFA settings for you Manage user authentication methods for Microsoft Entra multifactor authentication.

Once your school's IT admin has reset your MFA, the next time you log in to your account, you will be guided through the process of setting up the Microsoft Authenticator app again from the beginning by scanning a QR code. This will break the loop and allow you to access your account normally.

Please note that forum moderators do not have access to user account settings and cannot assist with logging in, resetting passwords, or changing access rights. While we do not have access to internal systems or administrative tools required to resolve account-specific or backend-related issues, we’ll continue doing our best to support you within the scope of our responsibilities.   

If you have any updates, feel free to leave a comment under this post. I’ll be happy to assist further. 

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding in resolving this matter.

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