How to change or add security verification and authentication methods to my Microsoft account

Modified on Wed, 23 Apr at 4:15 PM

1. Summary

This article teaches you, in a simple and detailed way, how to change or add an authentication method (such as the Microsoft Authenticator app or phone verification) on the Microsoft 365 portal.

2. Keywords & Tags

Microsoft 365, authentication, security, login, MFA, verification method, two-factor authentication
Tags: Microsoft, account security, authentication, technical support

3. Description

Do you need to change the authentication method on your Microsoft 365 account but don’t know where to start? This guide is especially for people who are not familiar with technology and need a clear step-by-step, as if receiving phone support.

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Go to the Microsoft portal

On your computer, open your internet browser (for example, Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge).
Type in the address: https://www.office.com and press Enter.
Click the Sign in button.
Enter your full email address and password (e.g., name@student.mustedu.com).
Click Next and follow the steps to log in.

Access your security info

Once you're signed in, look at the bottom left corner of the screen.
Click on your profile photo (or your initials).
From the menu, click on View account.
On the new page, look for the Security info section.
Click on Update info.

Add or change your authentication method

You will see a list of your current authentication methods.

✅ To add a new method:

Click on Add method.
Choose how you want to authenticate: Microsoft Authenticator app, phone number, email, etc.
Follow the instructions on the screen to finish the setup.

❌ To remove a method:

Click Delete next to the method you want to remove.

To change a method:

Click Change and follow the instructions on the screen.

Confirm and test

After making changes, the system might ask you to test the new method.
The next time you sign in, you might be asked to use this new authentication method.

Important Tips

Enable two-factor authentication (MFA) to make your account more secure.
Always have a backup method, such as a second phone number or an alternate email.

Contact Support (If Issue Persists)

Still having trouble?
Submit a support request via the MUST Help Desk Portal.