Microsoft Authenticator is a mobile app provided by Microsoft, which helps make your logins more secure.
It is required for all C+K staff.
The majority of us are working remotely now and will be logging into Office 365. Rather than receiving lots of text messages as part of the authentication process (Multi Factor Authentication or MFA), you can download and use the Microsoft Authenticator App.
What is the Microsoft Authenticator App?
This is a small application that you download on your phone, and each time it notices you need to authenticate to our network - like Office 365, for example - it will display a prompt on your phone screen asking you to approve your sign-in.
It is quite straightforward to setup, and when you first login, you will be prompted to do so with on-screen instructions on what to do.
What are the benefits of Microsoft Authenticator?
The benefit of using Microsoft Authenticator are:
- You can use it over Wi-Fi or mobile data, so it is not signal dependant.
- You only have to press an "Allow" button on your phone making it one-touch approval
- In case you don't have an Internet connection, the app generates a one-time passcode meaning you can still sign in
How do I use Microsoft Authenticator?
The app is pre-installed on all company phones. If you don't have a company phone, you can install it on your personal phone from the Google Play Store.
To set it up, follow this link to get started: https://aka.ms/mfasetup
Alternatively, you can follow our guide here: How to set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
What is MFA?
MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication. It means that you need to use more than one factor when signing into your account. A factor can be something you know, something you have, or something you are.
A good example of multi-factor authentication is drawing cash from an ATM; only the correct combination of a bank card (something you have) and a PIN (something you know) allows the transaction to be carried out.
C+K requires at least two factors - normally this means a password, plus either an authenticator app or a one-time passcode sent via text message.
Will I need Authenticator to sign into my laptop?
At the moment, you'll still need your password to sign into your laptop. We aim to incorporate multi-factor authentication into the sign-in process in the near future, but at the moment this is not possible. Eventually, you'll be able to sign in just by approving on Microsoft Authenticator.
When I'm in centre, I don't get MFA prompts. Why is this?
The High Street centre is a trusted location, meaning you only need to sign into your laptop once to access everything. Outside of High Street, you'll always be prompted to authenticate.
I've lost / broken my phone. How can I sign in?
Contact a member of the IT team in the first instance, and we can get you signed in. We recommend that you install Authenticator on your personal device as well, because this will allow you to continue working uninterrupted if you need to replace your company phone.
Microsoft Authenticator will not interfere with your personal phone in any way,