Set up Microsoft Authenticator on your mobile phone

We strongly recommend using an authenticator app, like Microsoft Authenticator (or Proton Authenticator), because it is the most secure verification method you can use (more secure than receiving a verification code sent via text or call). Follow these steps to set up Microsoft Authenticator: 

What you'll need to get started

• The Microsoft Authenticator app downloaded and installed on your phone.
• Your Buffalo State login credentials.

Link Microsoft Authenticator to your Buffalo State account

The steps in this section should be completed from a device other than your phone (e.g. laptop, desktop).

1. Go to Microsoft My Security Info and sign in with your Buffalo State email address and password. 
2. Click Add sign-in method and select Microsoft Authenticator.

Note: Microsoft defaults to its own app. If you'd prefer to use a different authentication app, like Proton Authenticator or Google Authenticator, you can link them by choosing "Set up a different authentication app" in step 3.

3. When the Install Microsoft Authenticator screen appears, click Next. Click Next again on the Set up your account screen. 

4. The Scan the QR code screen will appear. Keep this window open while you proceed to the next steps! 

Return to your phone

The steps in this section should be completed using your phone.

1. Grab your phone and open the Microsoft Authenticator.
2. Tap the plus sign (+) in the upper right to add an account.
3. Tap Work or school account and then tap Scan a QR code.

4. Point your phone at the QR code on the screen (from the previous section above). Once the QR code is scanned, your Buffalo State account will be added to the Authenticator app.

Return to your computer

1. Return to your computer and click Next on the Scan your QR code screen.
2. The Let's try it out screen will appear. Make note of the two-digit verification code displayed so that you can complete the setup. 

Return to your phone

1. Return to your phone and enter the two-digit verification number into the Authenticator app and tap Yes to approve the sign-in request. This completes the setup process. 

Use the Microsoft Authenticator app to sign in

Now that you've configured the Microsoft Authenticator app, you can use it to access your Buffalo State accounts.

1. When you sign-in to a Buffalo State site like Banner or Brightspace, a two-digit verification code will appear after entering your username and password.
2. Enter this two-digit code into the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone and tap Yes to approve the sign-in request.

Video demonstrating setting up MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator app

This video demonstrates how to register for multi-factor authentication using the Microsoft Authenticator app.

Microsoft Authenticator cloud backup

Learn how to backup and recover account credentials in the Authenticator app.