Passwordless Authentication for Microsoft 365 and Other Online Services

Summary

Enable passwordless authentication when using the Microsoft Authenticatior app for MFA

Body

Introduction

Passwordless authentication allows MFA-enabled users to sign in to Microsoft 365 and other online services without entering a password. Instead, the Microsoft Authenticator app uses number matching to verify identity. 

When you sign in, a number appears on the login screen. Enter that number in the Microsoft Authenticator app to complete the process. This extra step ensures the person requesting access is the same person approving the sign-in. Without number matching, attackers with stolen credentials could send approval requests to your device. If you accidentally approve, they gain access. Number matching helps prevent this risk. 


Instructions to Register for Passwordless Authentication

How to Register for Passwordless Authentication?

 

Step 1: Install Microsoft Authenticator

If you already have the app installed, skip to Step 2.

  1. Go to https://aka.ms/mysecurityinfo.
  2. Sign in and select Add sign-in method > Authenticator app > Add.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to install and configure the Microsoft Authenticator app.
  4. Select Done to complete setup.

Step 2: Enable Phone Sign-In

  1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app.
  2. Select and click on your minnstate.edu account, select Set up Passwordless sign-in request
  3. Follow the app instructions to finish registering your account and device.

Sign in with a Passwordless Credential

To use phone sign-in for the first time:

  1. Enter your username on the Sign-in screen.
  2. Select Next.
  3. If prompted, choose Other ways to sign in.
  4. Select Approve a request on my Authenticator app.
  5. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app and approve the request by entering the number shown on the sign-in screen.

 

How to verify if you are already enrolled in Passwordless Authentication?

Go to https://aka.ms/mysecurityinfo
Look if your account has a sign-in method that says Microsoft Authenticator Passwordless sign-in. This confirms that you are enrolled in passwordless sign-in. 
Refer to the screenshot below

 

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)

 

 

Details

Details

Article ID: 140149
Created
Tue 6/21/22 2:28 PM
Modified
Fri 12/12/25 2:36 PM

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