Summary
This article outlines key tips for setting up Microsoft Authenticator with a Northwood Tech account, including completing setup on time, properly configuring your device, and following best practices to avoid common issues.
Body
Overview
This article provides important tips for successfully setting up Microsoft Authenticator with your Northwood Tech account, including using the correct login, completing setup within the 14-day grace period, and ensuring your device is properly configured. It also covers best practices like using two devices, enabling notifications, removing old accounts, and what to do if you get a new phone or encounter issues.
Prerequisites
- An active Northwood Tech account (student or employee credentials)
- Access to MyCampus or another Northwood Tech login portal
- A smartphone or tablet capable of installing the Microsoft Authenticator app
- A reliable internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular)
- Access to a second device (computer, laptop, or lab machine) for easier setup
Tips & Tricks
1. Always Log in with Your Northwood Tech Account
- Many users have already signed into personal Microsoft or Google accounts on their browser or device.
- Tip: Use an InPrivate/Incognito browser window when setting up MFA to avoid conflicts with personal accounts.
- How to Use Incognito/InPrivate Window
- Reminder: Your Northwood Tech login looks like:
- Student: jstudent1234@northwoodtech.edu
- Employee: joe.employee@northwoodtech.edu
2. Don’t Skip the Setup – Use Your 14-Day Grace Period Wisely
- You have a 14-day grace period to set up Microsoft Authenticator.
- If you skip it, your account will lock when the grace period ends, and you’ll need to contact the Service Desk to get it reset.
- Tip: Set up your Authenticator the first time you log in, so you won’t get locked out later.
3. Use Two Devices for Setup
- Setup is easiest with two devices:
- A computer or laptop to log in to MyCampus.
- A phone or tablet to install Authenticator and scan the QR code.
- Trick: If you only have a phone, borrow a friend’s laptop or use a lab computer to complete the setup.
4. Double-Check Notifications on Your Phone
- The Authenticator app needs to send you approval prompts.
- Tip: Make sure notifications are enabled for the Authenticator app in your phone settings.
- If prompts don’t appear, you can open the app and enter the 6-digit code instead.
5. Remove Old Accounts from Authenticator First
- If you had Authenticator set up on an old phone or still see a Northwood Tech account in the app, remove it before adding the new one.
- This prevents errors like “account already exists.”
6. Keep Your Device Time in Sync
- Authenticator codes are time-based. If your phone’s clock is off, codes won’t work.
- Tip: Set your phone’s time to automatic network time.
7. Got a New Phone or Phone Number?
- Submit a Service Desk ticket and let us know you need your Authenticator reset.
- If you still have your old device, you can still use that to log in. Once logged in, you can log in to your account and add your new device yourself.
- After the reset, reinstall the Microsoft Authenticator app and follow the setup steps again.
- Tip: Please do not create multiple tickets. To help us resolve your issue as quickly as possible, submit your request only once (through either phone, email, or the MyHelp portal).