Signing in

Question

I'm having trouble signing in to my OneDrive on my Wife's phone (we have 365 - she is included).
When I go through the sign-in process it gives me a number to select in the "Microsoft App". I don't know what that is !

So I opted for an email instead, which I received. That contained a link to the password reset dialog. I don't want to do that.

How can I actually sign in the OneDrive ?

Thanks

nikolinode · Answer

It sounds like you're encountering multi-factor authentication (MFA), which Microsoft uses for added security. Here’s how you can sign in without resetting your password:

1. Understanding the "Microsoft App" Prompt

The number prompt is part of the Microsoft Authenticator App used for MFA.

If you have the Authenticator App installed on your phone:

Open it, and you should see a notification asking you to approve the sign-in by selecting the matching number.

If you don’t have the app or didn’t set it up:

That’s why you're not seeing the prompt.

2. Alternative Ways to Sign In (Without Password Reset)

Option A: Use a Different Verification Method

On the sign-in screen, click “I can’t use my Microsoft Authenticator app right now” or "Sign in another way" (wording may vary).
Choose another option:

Text message (SMS)
Phone call
Email verification (without resetting the password)

Option B: Disable App Authentication Temporarily (If Admin Access Available)

If you're the admin for the Microsoft 365 account:

Go to Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
Navigate to Users > Active Users.
Select your account and go to Authentication methods.
Temporarily disable the Microsoft Authenticator requirement (you can re-enable it later).

3. Last Resort: Add the Authenticator App

If none of the above works, install the Microsoft Authenticator App: