Initial Setup of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Summary

When you sign in to your new account for the first time, you will be guided through a short setup process to configure multi-factor authentication (MFA). You must complete this step before gaining full access to your account. The setup process is designed to be simple and only takes a few minutes, helping ensure your account is protected from unauthorized access from the very beginning.

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When you sign in to your new account for the first time (or after your MFA settings were reset), you will be guided through a short setup process to configure multi-factor authentication (MFA). After entering your username and password, you will be prompted to provide additional security information by selecting and registering an authentication method, such as the Microsoft Authenticator app or another available option. You must complete this step before gaining full access to your account. The setup process is designed to be simple and only takes a few minutes, helping ensure your account is protected from unauthorized access from the very beginning.

  1. In your browser, go to: https://office.com and click Sign in.
  2. Enter your Microsoft Work/School Account email address {uwinid}@uwindsor.ca and password
  3. After signing in, you may see a message "More information required” - click Next.
  4. MFA Setup will start and a “Keep your account secure” screen will appear. Click Next to begin setup. 
  5. You will be prompted to download and install Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device (smartphone or tablet).

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At this point, you have three options:

OPTION A (recommended):
Continue with Microsoft Authenticator app installation and setup, by clicking Next and following instructions in this article: Microsoft Authenticator - Getting Started

OPTION B:
Use a different authenticator app for your setup by clicking on Setup a different authentication app link and following instructions on the screen.

OPTION C:
Use a different authentication method, if you do not have a mobile device or do not want to use it for your Microsoft Work/School Account MFA. You will need to contact our Service Desk to obtain a Temporary Access Pass so that you can follow instructions in this article: FIDO2 Security Keys for Windows

Details

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Article ID: 94581
Created
Tue 12/17/19 10:38 AM
Modified
Thu 5/28/26 1:59 PM

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Configuring Authentication Methods
The different authentication options available in the My Profile under “My Security Info” page exist to let users prove their identity using multiple methods, which strengthens account security and provides flexibility during sign‑in or account recovery. Instead of relying only on a password—which can be stolen or guessed—these options (such as the Microsoft Authenticator app or passkeys) add extra verification factors so that access requires something you know, have, or are.
Microsoft Authenticator - Getting started
Microsoft Authenticator is a free mobile app from Microsoft for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices that helps protect your UWin Account (Microsoft work/school account). Passwords alone are no longer enough to keep accounts secure. Microsoft Authenticator adds an extra layer of protection that helps prevent unauthorized access, even if someone else knows your password.
What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) combines two or more independent credentials - what you know (your password) with something you have (mobile phone) in order to create a second layer of security for your UWin Account. Even if someone knows your password, they will be prevented from accessing your account when it is protected by MFA.