Microsoft Authenticator Passkey Setup

Question

How do I set up a Microsoft Authenticator Passkey?

Preface

Creating a Passkey:

The Microsoft Authenticator application allows a passkey to be created on a mobile device to be used on that device and authenticate to other devices using a QR code and a Bluetooth connection.

What you need before you start:

  • A university Microsoft work or school account.
  • A mobile device with:
    • iOS 17 or later, or
    • Android 14 or later
  • The Microsoft Authenticator app installed and updated.
  • Your phone must have:
    • A screen lock (PIN, fingerprint, or face recognition).
  • Your university must allow passkeys for sign-in (most universities using Entra ID do).

Important Notes for University Users:

  • Passkeys are device-specific. If you get a new phone, you must create a new passkey. [lazyadmin.nl]
  • You may still keep a password or security key as a backup.
  • You can have multiple accounts (student, employee, guest) in Authenticator.

If you lose your phone, contact your university IT Help Desk for recovery.

Answer

Microsoft Authenticator Passkey Setup

  1. With the Microsoft Authentication app already open, select the account you would like to add a passkey to.University of Missouri account circled.
  2. Select the Create a Passkey option.Create a passkey option circled.
  3. Let's create a passkey screen will display, select the Sign in button.Sign in option circled.
  4. The Face, fingerprint, PIN or security key screen may appear next depending on what authentication methods have already been set up for the account. If this does display, select the Sign in another way link.Sign in another way circled.
  5. Select a Verify your identity option. For this example, we will be selecting the Text option.Text option circled.
  6. You will receive a text with your verification code. Enter the code and select the Verify button.Enter code field circled and the Verify button circled.
  7. The screen will show the Creating passkey status until it has finished.Creating passkey loading page.
  8. A confirmation page will display when finished creating. Select the Done button.Done button circled.
  9. Next time you look at the account of the Microsoft Authenticator app, you will see the Passkey option.Passkey option circled.
  10. Selecting the Passkey will display the Passkey details page, this will confirm when it was created and that it is currently able to be used.Passkey details page.

For Additional Assistance

To view the Authenticating Using Passkey article, click HERE. 

If you need further assistance, please reach out to your Help Desk.

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