authenticator help

Owens, Anna G 0 Reputation points
2026-08-05T19:49:25.4866667+00:00

i am trying to use the authenticator app to approve a sign in request but i’m being asked to approve request while i’m in the app. i can’t receive the verification code or type in the code that my computer gives me

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Authenticator
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  1. AI answer

    2026-08-05T19:49:44.74+00:00

    Try these steps in order:

    1. On the sign-in screen, select Other ways to sign in and then Approve a request on my Microsoft Authenticator app if that option appears.
    2. Open Microsoft Authenticator on the phone and make sure the app is unlocked. If the app is locked, the number entry box may not appear.
    3. In Authenticator, pull down to refresh or tap Refresh. Some sign-in requests do not generate a notification automatically, and the request must be refreshed inside the app.
    4. If a number is shown on the computer, enter the matching number in Authenticator and tap Approve.
    5. If notifications are silent or disabled, enable notifications for Microsoft Authenticator. Silent or disabled notifications can prevent the prompt from appearing.
    6. Make sure the phone has internet access. If needed, switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
    7. Check that the phone’s date and time are correct.
    8. Update Microsoft Authenticator to the latest version.

    If approval still does not work:

    • Try Use a verification code if that option is offered during sign-in. The app can generate an OATH verification code that can be entered manually.
    • If this is a work or school account, an administrator can require MFA re-registration for the account so Authenticator can be set up again.
    • If another sign-in method is available, select I don’t have any of these and follow the prompts to add or verify security info.
    • If no codes are arriving and no alternate method works, use the Sign-in helper or Contact Microsoft Support. Support agents cannot send verification codes or change account details.

    For remote computer setup with a work or school account, Authenticator also supports Sign in from another device, but that feature works only if the admin has enabled remote sign-in.


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