How to set up 2 - Step Verification for Microsoft Accounts

Step 1. Sign in to Your Microsoft Account

Go to Microsoft's sign-in page and enter your username and password to sign in.

Step 2. Access Security Settings

Once logged in, click on "Security Info" in the navigation menu located in the left-hand side.
Click on Sign-in method

Step 3. Choose Your Verification Methods

Authenticator App (Recommended): You can use the Microsoft Authenticator app for more secure authentication.
- Download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone (available for Android or iOS).
- In your Microsoft account settings, choose "Set up Authenticator app".

Follow the prompts to scan a QR code using the Authenticator app. Once the app is set up, it will generate verification codes that you can use to sign in.

ALTERNATIVE AUTHENTICATOR APP

If you already have Google Authenticator downloaded on your mobile device, you may continue to use this app instead.

Set up 2 - Step Verification for Microsoft by following Steps 1 and 2 again.
Select the Microsoft Authenticator
Instead of Downloading the Microsoft Authenticator App select the option 'I want to use a different authenticator app'

You can manually add your Microsoft Account into the Google Authenticator, or you can continue by pressing the 'Next' button and follow the next few prompts.

In the Google Authenticator App click the plus button at the bottom right hand side of the screen
Select 'Scan QR code'
Once the QR code has been scanned a 6-digit code should appear on your app underneath your Microsoft email
Select Next

Enter the 6-digit code shown in the Authenticator App

Step 4. Phone Number: You can choose to receive a verification code via text message or phone call.

This is an alternative to the Downloading the App, however it is a good idea to have it set up as another 2 factor option just in case.

- Set up 2 - Step Verification for Microsoft by following Steps 1 and 2 again
- Click on "Add a new phone number", select your country code, and enter your phone number.
- Microsoft will send a verification code to your phone. Enter the code to verify.

Step 5. Confirm Your Setup

After setting up your chosen verification methods, Microsoft may prompt you to verify the setup.
You will be asked to test the method (either phone or authenticator app) to ensure everything is working.

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