Forum Discussion
Authenticator Setup
Just got a new PC on Monday and really struggling to 'speak Microsoft'
Somewhere I am asked to verify but struggle to provide an acceptable means.
Thought I'd try and install Microsoft Authenticator on Android Tablet and cell phone. I use OUTLOOK desktop and have access to my Outlook accout configured together with my regular email account. Authenticator requires confirmation but won't accept my outlook passwor,. won't send me a message to my outlook account (does suggest using my Authenticator app - which is what I am trying to set up - so not very helpful.) The email address is an old one which is no longer in use but sruggle to make changes without some sort of verification. Just going round in circles.
Guess I am missing something simple but have spent ages trying to get round this hurdle
Any help appreciated. Will try Youtube as well
1 Reply
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.
