Microsoft Authenticator is asking for an authentication code while I am trying to log in to the Authenticator app.

If Microsoft Authenticator is asking for an authentication code while you are trying to log in to the app, it typically means that you need to set up your account within the app. Here are the steps you can follow:

1. Download and Install: Ensure that you have the Microsoft Authenticator app installed on your mobile device.
2. Add Account: Open the app and select the option to add an account. You may need to tap on the + icon or the three-dot menu to find the option to add an account.
3. Choose Account Type: Select the type of account you want to add (e.g., work, school, or personal Microsoft account).
4. Scan QR Code or Enter Code: If you are prompted to scan a QR code, you will need to do this from the service you are trying to log into. If you cannot scan the code, you may have the option to enter a code manually.
5. Follow Instructions: Follow any additional prompts to complete the setup.

If you are still unable to log in, ensure that you are using the correct credentials and that your device has internet access. If issues persist, consider checking for updates to the app or reinstalling it.

References:

• Authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID - Microsoft Authenticator app
• Enable multifactor authentication in Azure Active Directory B2C (b2c-custom-policy)

Hi, I'm John! I will help you with this.

Microsoft Q&A is public, and we can only provide information. It is beyond our capability to assist directly with the account or login-related issues.

I understand how confusing that can be. Just to confirm, are you trying to sign in with a personal Microsoft account, or is this for a work or school account?

Also, was Microsoft Authenticator previously set up on another device, and are you now trying to set it up on a new one?

this is my first iphone with authenticator installed.
it was set up last time and it was working fine last time.
it is work account.

Thank you for letting me know.

In this case, you’ll need help from your organization’s IT or Microsoft 365 admin to reset your Authenticator setup.

Are there any other admins in your organization who could reset your multi-factor authentication settings for you?

Hey John,

I’m having the same issue. I need to set up a new laptop for my organization, and IT sent me a link with Microsoft 365 Copilot. When I start setting up the PC, it asks for an authenticator code from my phone.

However, I have never used an authenticator before for my organization, and this is my first time trying to access the system. Since I don’t have an authenticator set up, I’m unable to complete the login or deactivate/reset it.

Could you please help me fix this issue so I can finish setting up the PC?

Thank you.