Passwordless Authentication for Microsoft 365 and Other Online Services

Introduction

Passwordless Push authentication allows MFA‑enabled MinnState users to sign in to Microsoft 365 and other online services without a password. Instead, you use the Microsoft Authenticator app with number matching to securely confirm your identity.When you sign in, Microsoft displays a number on the login screen. You simply open the Authenticator app and enter that number to approve the request. This ensures the person signing in is the same person approving the login—helping prevent accidental approvals and credential‑theft attacks.

Instructions to Register for Passwordless Push Authentication

Step 1: Install and Set Up Microsoft Authenticator

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

1. Go to https://aka.ms/mysecurityinfo
2. Sign in with your MinnState credentials.
3. Select Add sign-in method → Authenticator app → Add.
4. Follow the on‑screen prompts to install and configure the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone.
5. When setup is complete, select Done.

Step 2: Enable Phone Sign‑In (Passwordless)

1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app.
2. Tap your @minnstate.edu account.
3. Select Enable phone sign-in or Set up passwordless sign‑in requests.
4. Follow the prompts in the app to finish linking your device.

Verify that "Ways to sign in or verify" displays Passwordless sign‑in requests. You are now registered for passwordless sign‑in.

How to Sign In Using Passwordless Push Authentication

1. Enter your username on the Microsoft 365 sign‑in page.
2. Select Next.
3. If prompted, choose Other ways to sign in.
4. Select Approve a request on my Authenticator app.
5. Open the Authenticator app and enter the number displayed on your screen to complete login.

How to Verify You Are Already Enrolled

1. Visit https://aka.ms/mysecurityinfo.
2. Look for a sign‑in method labeled Microsoft Authenticator – Passwordless sign‑in.
   • If you see this listed, you are fully enrolled.

Common Issues We’ve Seen

• Users often think passwordless isn’t working because their Authenticator app isn’t updated.
  • Make sure your app is fully updated through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Note: Screens may look slightly different depending on whether you use an iPhone or Android device.

Multi‑Factor Authentication (MFA) Reset Assistance

If you have changed your phone number, replaced your phone, or reinstalled your authentication app and Multi‑Factor Authentication (MFA) is no longer working, your MFA settings must be reset before you can sign in again.

Because MFA is a security‑sensitive service, HuskyTech must perform the MFA reset for you. Self‑service recovery is not available when the authenticator device or phone number has changed.