A Microsoft app for iOS and Android devices that enables authentication with two-factor verification, phone sign-in, and code generation
The 8-digit code is typically for a personal Microsoft account. A work or school account usually needs its own separate Authenticator registration, which is why it asks for a 6-digit code.
To get the correct QR code for the work account:
- Sign in to the work or school account setup prompt on the computer.
- In the setup wizard, keep the Set up your account page open.
- On the phone, open Microsoft Authenticator.
- Select Add account from the upper-right menu.
- Select Work or school account.
- Allow camera access if prompted.
- Back on the computer, select Next until the Scan the QR code page appears.
- Scan that QR code with Authenticator.
- If scanning does not work, select Can't scan the QR image on the computer and manually enter the code and URL into Authenticator.
- Complete the test approval or code step to finish registration.
If the app shows an error such as “To set up Microsoft Authenticator, you'll need to go to aka.ms/mfasetup on a web browser.”, or if registration is blocked because of admin restrictions or Conditional Access, the work account administrator must enable or reset the authentication method.
If verification codes are not arriving during setup, avoid repeated requests because unusual activity can temporarily block code delivery. Also confirm the correct phone or email is listed on the Security info page and use Update info if needed.