How to Use Microsoft Authenticator without Cellular Data or WiFi

Objective

How do I authenticate when my mobile device does not have internet access? 

Environment

• Microsoft Authenticator 

• Offline mobile device 

Procedure

Microsoft Authenticator can generate one-time verification codes even when your device is offline. The verification code is available directly in the Microsoft Authenticator app and does not require Wi-Fi or cellular data. 

To sign in to an MFA-protected application without internet connectivity on your mobile device: 

1. Begin signing in to an MFA-protected application.
2. Wait for the We've sent a notification message to open. 
3. Click Sign in another way. 
4. Select Use a verification code from my mobile app. 
5. Open Microsoft Authenticator on your mobile device. 
6. Locate the six-digit verification code displayed for your account. 
7. Enter the code into the Enter code field. 
8. Complete the sign-in process. 

Because the verification code is generated on the device, it remains available even when the device is in airplane mode.