Getting Started with Microsoft Authenticator

Getting Started with Microsoft Authenticator

Microsoft Authenticator is a free mobile app that keeps your La Sierra account secure. Instead of typing a password alone, you confirm it's really you by approving a notification or entering a one-time code from the app. This is called multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Sign in note: You'll use the app together with your La Sierra email address (yourusername@lasierra.edu) and password.

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1. Getting Started

Install the app

1. On your phone, open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android).
2. Search for Microsoft Authenticator.
3. Tap Get or Install — make sure the publisher is Microsoft Corporation.
4. Open the app once it finishes installing.

Add your La Sierra account

1. On a computer, go to aka.ms/mfasetup and sign in with your @lasierra.edu account.
2. Choose to add a sign-in method and select Authenticator app.
3. When prompted, open the Authenticator app on your phone and tap + > Work or school account > Scan a QR code.
4. Point your phone's camera at the QR code on your computer screen.
5. The app will send a test notification — tap Approve to finish.

Setting up for the first time:

Using Authenticator when logging in:

2. Common Tasks

Approve a sign-in

When you sign in to a La Sierra service (email, Teams, etc.), you'll be asked to approve it:

1. A notification appears on your phone.
2. Open it and tap Approve (or enter the number shown on your screen if asked).
3. If you didn't try to sign in, tap Deny — this protects your account.

Use a verification code

If you don't get a notification, you can use a code instead:

1. Open the Authenticator app.
2. Tap your La Sierra account.
3. Enter the 6-digit code shown into the sign-in screen. The code refreshes every 30 seconds.

Sign in without a password (passwordless)

Once your account is set up, you may be able to skip the password entirely:

1. Enter your @lasierra.edu email on the sign-in screen.
2. Instead of a password, a number appears.
3. Open the Authenticator notification and tap the matching number.

Add another account

1. Open the app and tap the + in the top corner.
2. Choose Work or school account or Personal account.
3. Scan the QR code or sign in to add it.

You can keep multiple accounts in one app — each shows its own code.

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3. Troubleshooting

• No notification? Open the app manually and use the 6-digit code instead, or check that notifications are enabled for Authenticator in your phone's settings.
• New phone? Set up Authenticator on the new device at aka.ms/mfasetup before wiping the old one. If you've already lost access, contact the A-Team to reset your sign-in methods.
• Running out of time on a code? Codes refresh every 30 seconds — just use the next one.
• Wrong account? Make sure you tapped your La Sierra (@lasierra.edu) account, not a personal one.

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Need more help?

If you run into trouble or have questions, contact the La Sierra University A-Team:

• Support portal: helpdesk.lasierra.edu
• Phone: (951) 785-2900