Setting Up the Microsoft Authentication App

Instructions on how to set up and use the Microsoft Authenticator app for use with WesternU Multi-Factor Authentication

How do I set up the Microsoft Authenicator App for use with WesternU Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

More information on MFA can be found here. This article will only provide detailed instructions on setting up the Microsoft Authenticator app

You will need to download the Microsoft Authenticator app from your respective app store:

• Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.azure.authenticator
• iPhone: https://itunes.apple.com/app/microsoft-authenticator/id983156458 

Navigate to https://go.westernu.edu and login using your WesternU credentials.

1. Once authenticated you will be prompted to further verify your account, click the Next button..
   
    
2. Method 1: Click the Next button after installing the Microsoft Authenticator from either the Apple or Android mobile store..
    
3. Click the Next button after enabling notifications, if prompted
    
4. Follow the instructions in the Configure mobile app dialog window scanning the QR Code.
   
    
5. Once you have installed the app, and followed the on-screen instructions to add an account and scanned the QR code, you will receive a two digit code that will need to be input in the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile phone.
   
    
6. Once verified on the mobile app dialog window, click the Next button.
    
7. Method 2: Now that the mobile app has been configured, on your computer you will be prompted to add a phone for a secondary set up.
   
    
8. Once you input your mobile phone number, press Next.

9. Microsoft will text a 6-digit code and you will be prompted to input the received code.
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10. Method 3: Will ask to save an “app password”. This is not required at this time and new app passwords can be generated later as needed for applications that do not support MFA. You can click the Done button.
     
11. You have successfully configured MFA! To review your settings, change your default options, or generate additional app passwords you can navigate here: https://go.westernu.edu/MFASetup 
    

App Lock Disabling

When the Authenticator app is installed App Lock is enabled by default.

• App Lock being enabled means you’ll also have to provide your device's PIN or biometric unlock method before successfully authenticating.
• To disable this feature you will need to access the Settings in the Authenticator app.
  • Android versions have three vertically stacked dots on the right side of the home screen of the Authenticator app to access Settings.
  • iOS versions have thee vertically stacked lines on the left side of the home screen of the Authenticator app to access Settings.
• Once in Settings, scroll down to the Security section to disabled / turn-off App Lock. 
• Close the Authenticator app.