how to activate microsoft authenticator, while I have, passkeys on every microsoft site?

Question

how to activate microsoft authenticator, when I have, mostly, passkey on every microsoft site?

Answer 1

To activate Microsoft Authenticator while using passkeys on Microsoft sites, follow these steps:

1. Download Microsoft Authenticator: If you haven't already, download the Microsoft Authenticator app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
2. Enable Authenticator as a Passkey Provider:
   • On your mobile device, go to Settings and ensure that Authenticator is set up as a passkey provider. This may involve enabling certain settings related to passwords and autofill.
3. Register Passkeys in Authenticator:
   • Open the Authenticator app and follow the prompts to add your accounts, including registering your passkeys. You can do this through the Security info section of your Microsoft account by selecting + Add sign-in method and choosing Passkey in Microsoft Authenticator.
4. Sign in with Authenticator: Once you have registered your passkeys, you can use the Authenticator app to sign in to your Microsoft accounts. When prompted for sign-in, select the passkey option.

By following these steps, you can effectively use Microsoft Authenticator alongside your existing passkeys on Microsoft sites.

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References:

• Enable passkeys in Authenticator
• Register passkeys in Authenticator on Android or iOS devices

Answer 2

Hi,

This is April, I'll be happy to assist you. I understand you need help activating your Microsoft authenticator. Let me help you out.

Based on the description of your issue, you want to activate Microsoft Authenticator but most of your Microsoft accounts already use passkeys for sign-in.

When you try to activate Microsoft authenticator, does the app prompt you to add your account with a passkey option or does it only show password or verification method?

You can set up Microsoft Authenticator with passkeys by registering your passkey directly within the Authenticator app on your IOS or Android device. This connects your Microsoft account passkeys to the app, allowing you to use Authenticator as your main login method for Microsoft sites.

Here's a step-by-step guide on How you can activate Microsoft Authenticator with Passkeys:

1. Install Microsoft Authenticator
   • Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)
   • Ensure your device is running iOS 17 or Android 14 (or later), as passkey support requires these versions.
2. Open the Authenticator App
   • Launch the app and sign in with your Microsoft account.
   • If you already use passkeys on Microsoft sites, you may be prompted to connect them.
3. Register Your Passkey
   • In the app, go to: Settings > Accounts > Add account > Personal Microsoft account.
   • Select Sign in with passkey
   • The app will detect your existing passkey credentials and register them automatically.
4. Alternative Registration Methods If direct registration doesn't work, you can:
   • Sign in with a passkey through your mobile browser, then link Autheticator
   • Use cross-device registration (sign in on a laptop, then confirm on your phone)
5. Verify your Setup
   • After registration, your Microsoft account will appear in Authenticator with a passkey symbol
   • Test it by signing in to a Microsoft site (like Outlook.com). You should see the option to approve via Authenticator instead of entering a password.

For a smooth activation experience, make sure your device is running the latest operating system updates. Enabling biometric authentication, such as Face ID, Touch ID or fingerprint recognition, in the Authenticator app can speed up approval processes. If you handle multiple accounts, clearly labeling each one within the app helps prevent confusion and ensures a more organized workflow.

I hope this helps. If you need further assistance you can reply to this message.

Thank you,

April P.

Independent Advisor