Microsoft MFA – Authentication Methods
This article provides information on the various authentication methods users can choose from for use with Microsoft MFA.
Beginning February 21, 2023, Microsoft Authenticator App will be updated to include number matching and location mapping for the Push Notification authentication method.
Microsoft MFA offers a variety of ways for users to authenticate including text message, phone call, or the Microsoft Authenticator App's push notification or code entry. The following is a description of the various authentication methods that users can choose from. Users must choose one of the methods below as their primary authentication method, and depending on which methods you choose one or more backup methods.
Microsoft Authenticator App Push Notification with number matching and location mapping. Requires the device to have a screen lock
This method offers convenience to users. When a user attempts to sign in, they will have the following experience:
- When signing into a UWM service, a number will be displayed in the sign in prompt.
- The attempted sign in sends a push notification to the user’s registered mobile device.
- Upon opening the push notification, the app displays the location map of the IP address where the attempted sign in occurred, and a text box and number pad.
- The user enters number from the sign in prompt into the authenticator app and taps Yes.
- The user gains access to the UWM service by matching the correct number.
Please Note: If the location map presented in the prompt does not match your physical location, this could be for reasons such as IP Address location, VPN use, and cell phone tower location. If you receive a prompt that you did not initiate, do not approve the prompt.
The following image shows the Microsoft Authenticator App Push Notification with number matching and location mapping on an iOS device. If you are viewing this article on a computer, you can securely install the Microsoft Authenticator App by using your Android or iOS device to scan the respective QR codes directly from Microsoft's website. If you are viewing this article on your mobile device, you can click the link to securely install it for Android from the Google Play Store, or for iOS from the App Store.




Choose and answer 3 security questions from a list of 20 choices. To use this with Self-Service Password Recovery, you must correctly answer all three security questions.