Can’t access Microsoft Authenticator codes

Question

On one of my devices, Microsoft authenticator uninstalled due to low storage, when reinstalled it wasn't logged in. On my other device it never shows the authenticator codes, now I'm locked out of my accounts, how do I access again?

Answer 1

If backup was enabled before the app was removed, restore the accounts first:

1. Open Microsoft Authenticator on the device.
2. Select Restore from backup or Begin recovery before signing in. If already signed in, sign out first.
3. Sign in with the same recovery account used for the backup.
4. If the accounts restore, sign in and register any work or school accounts again.

If Restore from backup or Begin recovery does not appear, remove or sign out of all accounts in Authenticator, then try the restore flow again.

If the restored accounts show "Sign in to restore your account", tap Sign in for each account, enter the password, and complete the extra verification.

If the app is installed but no codes or prompts appear, check these items on the device:

1. Make sure the app is on the latest version. Versions older than 12 months are not supported.
2. In Authenticator, open Settings and make sure App updates is turned on.
3. Open Settings > Notification Settings and make sure Show notifications is turned on.
4. Make sure the device has internet access. Try switching between Wi‑Fi and mobile data, and make sure Airplane mode is off.
5. Make sure the device date and time are correct.
6. If using VPN, disconnect it and test again.
7. If the app was locked, unlock it and retry.

If a sign-in fails with "Authentication did not complete", common fixes are enabling notifications, updating the app, checking network connectivity, and correcting date/time settings.

If no backup exists or restore still fails, the accounts must be added again. If access to those accounts is blocked because Authenticator is the only sign-in method:

• For work or school accounts, contact the IT admin to reset MFA methods or require re-registration.
• For personal accounts, use another available sign-in method if one exists. If none exists and all security info is lost, start account recovery. If recovery is not possible through Authenticator because iCloud access is unavailable on iOS, contact Apple Support.

If the issue continues after these steps, send logs from Authenticator using Send feedback from the app menu, then contact Support for personal accounts or the IT admin for work or school accounts.

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References:

• Microsoft Authenticator FAQs | Microsoft Support
• [iOS
• Troubleshoot problems with Microsoft Authenticator | Microsoft Support
• Authentication did not complete | Microsoft Support
• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues | Microsoft Support
• Unable to log into Authenticator app - Microsoft Q&A
• Can't get Codes from Microsoft Authenticator - Microsoft Q&A