Microsoft Authenticator

What is Microsoft Authenticator?

Microsoft Authenticator is a mobile security app that provides an additional layer of security through multi-factor authentication (MFA). It helps users securely sign in to their Microsoft 365 accounts and other connected apps by verifying their identity using their mobile devices. The app supports passwordless login, push notifications, time-based one-time passwords (TOTP), and more.

Why Use Microsoft Authenticator?

Using Microsoft Authenticator significantly strengthens your account security, especially in environments that handle sensitive data or grant access to enterprise-level resources. It helps protect against phishing, password theft, and unauthorized access by requiring a second factor for login.

Benefits:

• Enhanced security through MFA.
• Frictionless login with push notifications or biometric verification.
• Passwordless access, reducing the need to remember or reuse passwords.
• Compliance-ready, aligning with security best practices for organizations.

Is Microsoft Authenticator Free?

Yes, Microsoft Authenticator is completely free to download and use. It is available on both iOS and Android platforms and does not require any additional licensing. However, its use is often paired with Microsoft 365 subscriptions that include MFA policies or conditional access.

Key Features of Microsoft Authenticator

• Push Notifications for one-tap approvals.
• Biometric Authentication (Face ID or fingerprint).
• Time-based One-Time Passwords (TOTP) for third-party apps like Google, Facebook, and more.
• Passwordless Sign-In for Microsoft accounts and Azure AD.
• Cloud Backup and Recovery of account credentials.
• App Lock feature for enhanced security within the app.

How to Use Microsoft Authenticator with Office 365?

You can use Microsoft Authenticator with your Office 365 account in two primary ways:

1. Setting Up MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication):
• Sign in to your Microsoft 365 account
• Go to My Account > Security info.
• Choose Add method > Authenticator App.
• Scan the QR code using the Microsoft Authenticator app.
2. Passwordless Login:
• After MFA setup, enable passwordless sign-in within the app settings.
• Upon next login, approve the sign-in directly from your device without entering your password.

Summary

Key Point	Details
Product Name	Microsoft Authenticator
Purpose	Secure sign-in using multi-factor authentication and passwordless login
Included In	Free for all Microsoft account users and integrated with M365 licenses
Free to Use?	Yes, the app is free on iOS and Android
Access Method	Microsoft Authenticator mobile app, integrated with Office 365 login
Integrates With	Microsoft 365, Azure AD, Outlook, Teams, Exchange, other third-party apps