How to get authenticator app to work??

Question

My authenticator app isn't letting me type in any of the codes that were supposed to be sent, it doesn't even show me that a code was sent or someone attempted to login

Answer 1

Follow these checks and fixes to get Microsoft Authenticator working:

1. Make sure the app is unlocked
   • Open Microsoft Authenticator and ensure it is not locked by a PIN/biometrics.
   • If it is locked, unlock it and try the sign-in again so the prompt or code entry box can appear.
2. Check notifications on the device
   • Confirm notifications are enabled for Microsoft Authenticator in the device settings.
   • Turn off “silent” or “do not disturb” modes that might hide prompts.
   • Try another sign-in and watch for a banner or pop‑up prompt.
3. Confirm the correct device is receiving prompts
   • If Authenticator is still installed on an old phone, the push notification may be going there instead of the current device.
   • If you still have the old phone, open Authenticator on it and approve the sign‑in.
   • If you no longer have the old device, use another verification method (SMS, email, or other method offered on the sign‑in screen) and then remove the old device from your account security settings.
4. Update the app
   • Go to the app store on the device and install the latest version of Microsoft Authenticator. Outdated versions can cause “authentication did not complete” behavior.
5. Check network, date, and time
   • Ensure the phone has a working internet connection; if needed, switch between Wi‑Fi and mobile data and retry.
   • Verify the device date and time are set correctly (preferably automatic).
6. If sign‑in still fails
   • If the message “Authentication did not complete” appears, re‑check app lock, notifications, app version, network, and device time as above.
   • If unable to complete sign‑in because of forgotten credentials, use the password reset flow provided on the sign‑in page.
   • For work or school accounts where none of the above works, contact the organization’s IT admin or Help desk and ask them to reset MFA/authentication methods.

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References:

• Troubleshoot problems with Microsoft Authenticator
• Authentication did not complete
• Microsoft Authenticator FAQs
• Common problems with two-step verification for a work or school account
• Why is Microsoft texting me?
• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues
• Authenticator Did Not Complete Login