This Section provides instructions for adding backup Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) verification methods for your Microsoft M365 account. Please install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device before you begin the set up steps below.  You will find step-by-step instructions in the article on Installing the Microsoft Authenticator App. 

For an overview, we recommend this short video of the entire process, also available at Manage security information in My Account | Microsoft Entra ID .

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 1: In your web browser, go to myaccount.microsoft.com and sign in if prompted.

 

Step 2: Click on “Update Info: in the "Security info" tile, or select “Security info” from the left-hand navigation menu. You may need to sign in again or complete multi-factor authentication (MFA) if prompted.

 

 

Step 3: You will see a list of your current MFA methods. To add a new method, click “Add sign-in method”.

 

 

Step 4: From the “Choose a method” dropdown, select the MFA option you want to add, and follow the on-screen instructions.

 

 

Here are some possible methods you may see in the list, depending on which methods you have already set up:

- Call my authentication phone

- Send a text code to my authentication phone

- Call my alternate phone (e.g., office or home)

- Notify me through the Authenticator app

 

For more details on how each method works, you can refer to this article: *Choosing a preferred method of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for M365.*

 

Step 5: If you want to add more backup methods, repeat Step 3. It's highly recommended to set up the Authenticator app (which works even when your phone lacks internet or service), plus at least one phone-based method (call or SMS).

 

Outcome

You will now have multiple MFA methods available as backups in case you need them while signing into Microsoft M365 services.

Note: To change your default MFA method, click the “Change” link next to the Default method and select your preferred option from the list. You can also click “Change” or “Delete” for specific methods if needed.