Microsoft Authenticator Setup
Install the Microsoft Authenticator App
Use Microsoft's guide to setting up and managing your authentication method
Or select one of the following:
Add Accounts
How to add your accounts to Microsoft Authenticator
- You will be prompted with the following upon signing into your Western Email or MyWestern. Select Next
- If the Microsoft Authenticator app is installed on your mobile device, select Next. click here for Microsoft's install guide.
- Select Pair your account to the app by clicking this link
- Open your Microsoft Authenticator app when prompted and look for your Western email address in the area highlighted below
- Navigate back to the sign in page in your Office 365 app or Web-page and select Done
- You will be prompted with a number, navigate back to the Microsoft Authenticator App
- Enter the number and select Yes
- Follow the prompts to create an app password and select Done.
Managing Authentication Methods
Navigate to My Sign-Ins | Security Info | Microsoft.com and sign-in with your Western email account.
- To add a new sign-in method, please click the + symbol as indicated in the photo below.
- To edit an existing sign-in method click on one of the following:
- Change - Edit the current settings
- Delete - Delete the selected sign-in method
- If you have lost or misplaced your mobile device you can click Sign out everywhere option indicated below. This will sign you out of your Western accounts on all devices.
General MFA Information & FAQs
Multifactor Authentication (MFA) significantly boosts the security of your Western account by adding two forms of identification: your password and a code sent to your Microsoft Authenticator app. This additional layer of security makes it more challenging for unauthorized users to access your account, even if they have your password. As cyber threats become more advanced, MFA helps safeguard your account against unauthorized access, identity theft, and data breaches.
I have added my phone as a sign-in method, why is it asking me for an authentication code?
By default, the most secure method of authentication on your account will be used at login, which will always be the Microsoft Authenticator app. Text messages and Phone calls will be used as a secondary verification method.
I have not setup an authentication method, why am I being asked for a code?
You will be allowed to skip the authentication setup 3 times. After the 3rd skip your account will have to be reconfigured, please call the helpdesk for assistance. We can be reached at 608-789-6266 Monday - Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm.
What do I do if I do not know my password and have not setup my Microsoft Authenticator?
For account security reasons, please contact PC Services for assistance regaining access to your account and re-configuring your authentication method. We can be reached at 608-789-6266 Monday - Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm
What if I lose access to my phone or MFA methods?
If you lose access to your phone or your MFA methods, please contact PC Services for assistance regaining access to your account. We can be reached at 608-789-6266 Monday - Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm
If you need further assistance please contact the PC Service Help Desk at 608-789-6266 or pcservice@westerntc.edu.