Getting help and support with Multi-Factor Authentication
To help with setting up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to approve access to Microsoft 365 services, we have a number of support arrangements available.
This page was last updated on 15 August 2023 at 10:36 (GMT)
Need help?
If you need help with setting up MFA or have questions about approval methods, you can ask our staff. We have a mix of on-campus, virtual and telephone support options:
MFA set up guides
Instructions are available on the MFA web page via the link below:
Multi-Factor Authentication user guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some recently asked questions that may help you. Click on a question to show the answer.
I don’t have a smartphone, which option should I choose?
If you have a SIM enabled mobile phone, then
text message is a good option providing you have network signal. You can also use
verification code as a second authentication method and vice versa. We recommend adding a phone number regardless as this can be used as a backup approval method.
I don’t have a mobile phone. How should I authenticate?
Users with no phone can use
verification code on a desktop app on a laptop / desktop PC. There are options for both Windows and macOS. We have some instructions for Authy (supports most operating systems) and WinAuth (for Windows 10).
I cannot use my chosen authentication device right now. What should I do?
If you are prompted for authentication and you cannot use your default authentication method, you may have an option to use an alternative method as described below:
- You should get an option if you have added your mobile number or set up another app. For example, Microsoft will display a link saying "I can't use my Microsoft Authenticator app right now".
- The wording might be different depending on your chosen authentication method. When you click the link, you would be shown some alternative methods to verify your identity, e.g. verification code or text message.
If you cannot update your settings to approve authentication then you may need to request that MFA is reset on your account. For reset requests, please contact the IT Service Desk (staff or students) or the Smart Bar (students only).
I use Microsoft PowerAutomate (Flow). Will this be affected?
Users with any PowerAutomate Flows set up may need to access PowerAutomate and confirm who you are via the new MFA process. Instructions can be found on
SharePoint.
I use the Apple Mail app on iPhone and / or macOS and I’ve stopped receiving emails. What should I do?
When MFA is turned on for Microsoft 365 accounts, this is known to stop authentication with Apple's native Mail app. Users will need to delete their account and re-add it so that the MFA request can be approved and then re-sync their mail, calendar, contacts and notes if they choose. Visit
connect your devices for instructions.
I use the Gmail app on iPhone and / or Android and I’ve stopped receiving emails. What should I do?
When MFA is turned on for Microsoft 365 accounts, this is known to stop authentication with the Gmail app.
- Android users will need to delete their account within the app and re-add by selecting the option 'Exchange and Office 365'. This will allow the MFA request to be approved and then sync mail.
- For iPhone users, the Gmail app currently does not support modern authentication and therefor cannot be used. The Microsoft Outlook or Apple Mail app is supported, visit connect your devices for instructions.
For further FAQs, visit the Securing 365 SharePoint site.
Self Service requests