Authenticator Setup

hi peterhw​  It sounds like you’re running into a common “chicken-and-egg” problem when setting up Microsoft Authenticator: the system is asking for verification via a method you don’t yet have set up, and your old email is no longer accessible. Here are some suggestions:

Use a backup method if available

When prompted, check if there’s an option for SMS to a phone number or recovery email. Sometimes these appear under “I don’t have any of these” links.

Set up Authenticator on a new device via account.microsoft.com

Sign in to https://account.microsoft.com on a browser.

Go to Security → Advanced security options → Add a new sign-in method → Authenticator app.

This allows you to link the app to your account without needing verification via the old email.

Use temporary codes

If you have previously generated recovery codes, these can help bypass the Authenticator setup for initial sign-in.

Contact Microsoft Support

If none of the above work, you may need account recovery. Microsoft Support can verify your identity and allow you to update your account info so you can finish Authenticator setup.

Tip: Keep a phone number or secondary email updated in your Microsoft account — it can save a lot of trouble when setting up MFA on new devices.