MFA SMS to Push Notifications

This article explains how to change your Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) default sign-in method from SMS text messages to app-based push notifications.

Push notifications allow you to approve sign-in requests directly through the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.

Instructions

Step 1: Sign in to Office 365

1. Navigate to Microsoft Office 365.
2. Sign in using your UBalt credentials.
3. Click your profile initials or profile picture in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
4. Select View Account.

Step 2: Open Security Information

1. From your Microsoft account page, locate the Security info section.
2. Click Update Info.

This opens the Security info page, where you can manage your account's authentication methods.

Step 3: Change Your Default Sign-In Method

1. On the Security info page, locate the section displaying your current default sign-in method.
2. Click Change next to the current default method.

Step 4: Select App-Based Authentication

1. Open the default sign-in method dropdown menu.
2. Select App based authentication - notification.
3. Confirm your selection if prompted.

Expected Result

Your default Microsoft MFA sign-in method should now be set to App based authentication - notification.

When signing in to Microsoft 365 services, you should receive a push notification through the Microsoft Authenticator app on your registered mobile device instead of relying on an SMS text message as your default authentication method.

Need Assistance?

If you are unable to change your default MFA method, are not receiving push notifications, or need assistance with Microsoft Authenticator, contact the University of Baltimore Office of Technology Services (OTS) for support.