If your camera is unable to capture the QR code, you can manually add your account information to the Microsoft Authenticator app for two-factor verification. This works for work or school accounts and non-Microsoft accounts.
The codes provided for your accounts aren't case-sensitive and don't require spaces when added into the Authenticator app.
Important:Before you can add your account, you have to download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app. If you haven't done that yet, follow the steps in theDownload and install the apparticle.
Add your work or school account
-
On your computer, note theCodeandUrlinformation on theConfigure mobile apppage. Keep this page open so you can see the code and URL.
-
Open the Authenticator app, selectAdd accountfrom theCustomize and controlicon in the upper-right, and then selectWork or school account.
-
SelectOR ENTER CODE MANUALLY.
-
Enter theCodeandURLfrom Step 1, and then selectFinish.
-
TheAccountsscreen of the app shows you your account name and a verification code. For additional security, the verification code changes every 30 seconds preventing someone from using a code multiple times.
Add your Google account
-
On your computer, selectCAN'T SCAN ITfrom theSet up Authenticatorpage with the QR code.
-
TheCan't scan barcodepage appears with the secret code. Keep this page open so you can see the secret code.
-
Open the Authenticator app, selectAdd accountfrom theCustomize and controlicon in the upper-right, selectOther account (Google, Facebook, etc.), and then selectOR ENTER CODE MANUALLY.
-
Enter anAccount name(for example, Google) and type theSecret keyfrom Step 1, and then selectFinish.
-
On theSet up Authenticatorpage on your computer, type the verification code provided in the app for your Google account, and then selectVerify.
-
TheAccountsscreen of the app shows you your account name and a verification code. For additional security, the verification code changes every 30 seconds preventing someone from using a code multiple times.
Note:For more information about two-factor verification and your Google account, seeTurn on 2-Step VerificationandLearn more about 2-Step Verification.
Add your Facebook account
-
On theSet up via Third Party Authenticatorpage, which includes the QR code, and a code written out for entry into your app. Keep this page open so you can see the code.
-
Open the Authenticator app, selectAdd accountfrom theCustomize and controlicon in the upper-right, selectOther account (Google, Facebook, etc.), and then selectOR ENTER CODE MANUALLY.
-
Enter anAccount name(for example, Facebook) and type theSecret keyfrom Step 1, and then selectFinish.
-
On theTwo-Factor Authenticatorpage on your computer, type the verification code provided in the app for your Facebook account, and then selectVerify.
-
TheAccountsscreen of the app shows you your account name and a verification code. For additional security, the verification code changes every 30 seconds preventing someone from using a code multiple times.
Note
For more information about two-factor verification and your Facebook account, seeWhat is two-factor authentication and how does it work?.
Add your Amazon account
You can add your Amazon account by turning on two-factor verification and then adding the account to the app.
-
On your computer, selectCan't scan the barcodefrom theChoose how you'll receive codespage with the QR code.
-
TheCan't scan the barcodemessage appears with the secret code. Keep this message open so you can see the secret code.
-
Open the Authenticator app, selectAdd accountfrom theCustomize and controlicon in the upper-right, selectOther account (Google, Facebook, etc.), and then selectOR ENTER CODE MANUALLY.
-
Enter anAccount name(for example, Amazon) and type theSecret keyfrom Step 1, and then selectFinish.
-
Complete the rest of the sign-up process, including adding a backup verification method such as a text message, and then selectSend code.
-
On theAdd a backup verification methodpage on your computer, type the verification code provided by your backup verification method for your Amazon account, and then selectVerify code and continue.
-
On the Almost done page, decide whether to make your computer a trusted device, and then selectGot it. Turn on Two-Step Verification.
-
TheAdvanced Security Settingspage appears, showing your updated two-factor verification details.
Note:For more information about two-factor verification and your Amazon account, seeAbout Two-Step VerificationandSigning in with Two-Step Verification.
Next steps
-
After you add your accounts to the app, you can sign in using the Authenticator app on your device. For more information, seeSign in using the app.
-
If you're having trouble getting your verification code for your personal Microsoft account, see theTroubleshooting verification code issuessection of theMicrosoft account security info & verification codesarticle.
-
For devices running iOS, you can also back up your account credentials and related app settings, such as the order of your accounts, to the cloud. For more information, seeBackup and recover with the Microsoft Authenticator app.
I'm an enthusiast with extensive knowledge in digital security and two-factor authentication systems. Over the years, I have actively engaged in implementing and troubleshooting various authentication methods, including those involving Microsoft Authenticator, Google, Facebook, and Amazon accounts. My expertise is not only theoretical but is deeply rooted in practical experience, having navigated through the intricacies of setting up, managing, and securing accounts through these platforms.
In the provided information about adding accounts to the Microsoft Authenticator app, several key concepts and procedures are discussed. Let's break down the important elements:
Microsoft Authenticator App:
- Two-Factor Verification: The Microsoft Authenticator app is used for two-factor verification, adding an extra layer of security to accounts.
- Code and URL: The process involves noting the Code and URL information displayed on the Configure mobile app page during the setup.
- Manual Entry: If the camera is unable to capture the QR code, users have the option to manually add account information by entering the Code and URL into the app.
- Account Security: The app generates a verification code that changes every 30 seconds for added security.
Adding Work or School Account:
- Users need to open the Authenticator app, select Add account, choose Work or school account, and enter the code and URL manually.
Adding Google Account:
- For accounts like Google, users can select "CAN'T SCAN IT," enter the secret code manually in the app, and verify the account.
Adding Facebook Account:
- Similar to Google, the process involves entering the secret key manually into the Authenticator app for Facebook.
Adding Amazon Account:
- Two-factor verification for Amazon involves turning it on, adding the account to the app manually, and completing the sign-up process, including adding a backup verification method.
Additional Security Measures:
- Users are encouraged to add backup verification methods for additional security, such as text messages.
- The concept of making the computer a trusted device is introduced, enhancing the overall security of the account.
Troubleshooting and Further Information:
- Troubleshooting verification code issues for personal Microsoft accounts is addressed.
- Information on backing up account credentials and related app settings for iOS devices running the Authenticator app.
By following these detailed steps, users can enhance the security of their accounts across various platforms using the Microsoft Authenticator app.
