How do I set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) from a mobile device?

This guide will go through the steps required for setting up multi-factor authentication (MFA) from your mobile device. This will work for any up-to-date iOS and Android devices.

Steps for setting up MFA on a mobile device

1) You will firstly need to make sure the 'Microsoft Authenticator' app is installed on your device. Please follow the steps below, depending on which device you have:

iOS devices (iPhone and iPads)

Open up the App Store

Click on the search bar and type in 'Microsoft Authenticator' and install the following app

Once installed, open the app and press accept/continue to anything that comes up until you see the home page

Please move onto step 2 below

Android phones and tablets

Open up the Play Store

In the search bar, type in 'Microsoft Authenticator' and install the following app

Once installed, click on Open and press accept/continue to anything that comes up until you see the home page

Please move onto step 2 below

2) When you first sign into your account, you will get the following prompt. Please press Next.

3) It will then ask you to make sure you have the Microsoft Authenticator installed. Please press Next.

4) After clicking next, you will get the following page. Please click on 'Pair your account to the app by clicking this link'

5) This will then open the Microsoft Authenticator and add your account to the app automatically:

6) Once added, go back to the set up page and press Next.

7) It will then provide you with a 2 digit number on the screen. Remember this number and tap on the notification on your phone to enter this number.

8) Once approved, go back to the set up screen again and press Next.

9) You will then be prompt to set up your mobile phone number. Change the area code to United Kingdom (+44), enter your UK number and then press Next.

10) It will then send you a text message with a code. Enter the number provided and then press Next.

11) Press Next and then Done and this will complete your MFA set up

I am having further issues, how can I reach IT Services?

If you are having any further issues, you can contact us through one of the following methods:

• You can report an issue in person at the IT Services helpdesk on the ground floor of the Learning Hub
• You can raise an IT ticket in the IT self-service portal
• You can also call us on 01604 893333
• If you are an international student, you can email us on Int_ITSupport@northampton.ac.uk 

Our opening times are:

• Monday to Thursday: 8am to 5pm
• Friday: 8am to 9am and then 10am to 5pm