Set Up Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

For staff and teachers. MFA protects your account with a second check on your phone. You will set up the Microsoft Authenticator app once, then approve sign-ins by typing a 2-digit number. Setup takes about 5 minutes and you need both your computer and your phone.

Set up MFA in about 5 minutes. Step 1: install Microsoft Authenticator by scanning the QR code or going to aka.ms/authapp. Step 2: on your computer go to aka.ms/mysecurityinfo, select Add sign-in method, then Microsoft Authenticator, and scan the QR code with the app. Step 3: type the 2-digit number shown on your computer into the app and tap Yes. Text message and phone call options are turned off. Passkeys and security keys are listed at the bottom of the page.

Example setup screens. 1: the Security info page with Add sign-in method and Microsoft Authenticator highlighted. 2: the Authenticator app asking what kind of account you are adding, with Work or school account highlighted and a Scan QR code button. 3: a phone prompt asking Are you trying to sign in, showing the account, app, and location, with the number 47 entered to match the number on the computer.

Only approve sign-ins you started. If you just signed in and the number matches your screen, type the number and tap Yes. If a prompt shows up when you are not signing in, tap No, change your password, and submit a ticket. If someone calls, texts, or emails asking for the number, never share it, even with someone who says they are IT.

Getting a new phone. If you still have the old phone: install Authenticator on the new phone, go to aka.ms/mysecurityinfo and approve the sign-in on the old phone, select Add sign-in method and scan the QR code with the new phone, then delete the old phone from the list. If the old phone is lost or wiped: call the Help Desk at 269-250-9280. We will ask you to confirm your identity, then give you a short-term Temporary Access Pass to sign in and set up the app on your new phone.

Other ways to sign in without the Authenticator app. Recommended: a passkey on your computer with Windows Hello, using your face, fingerprint, or PIN. Recommended: a passkey in a password manager such as iCloud Keychain or Google Password Manager that syncs to your other devices. Both are added in Security info under Add sign-in method, Passkey. Security key such as a YubiKey that you plug in or tap; check with your district IT to see if security keys are available. Set up at least two ways to sign in.

Common questions

Can I get a text message or phone call instead?

No. Text message and phone call options are turned off because they are easier to steal. Use the Authenticator app, a passkey, or a security key.

Do I have to set a default sign-in method?

Usually not. Microsoft offers your most secure method first. If you are always asked for something else, go to Security info and set your default to Microsoft Authenticator - notification.

What if I get a prompt I did not expect?

Tap No. Someone may know your password. Change your password right away and submit a ticket so we can check your account.

Can I use more than one method?

Yes, and we recommend it. For example, use the Authenticator app on your phone and a passkey on your computer.

Need help?

Submit a ticket at support.swmitech.org. If you are locked out, call the Help Desk at 269-250-9280.

Last updated October 2026. Maintained by SW MiTech Systems Infrastructure.