Free two-factor authenticator
Microsoft Authenticator is a free security app for a two-factor authenticator. This app allows you to login into your Microsoft accounts through your phones. Like most authentication tools, the app generates code that you need to provide to log into an account. It is helpful for quick sign-ins as it’s faster than email or text codes. The app works cross-platform and features multi-account support. Do note that it doesn’t work for non-Microsoft websites and services.
What is the app used for?
Microsoft Authenticator helps to make your accounts more secure. Instead of a password, you can sign in to your accounts through a fingerprint scan, face recognition, or a PIN. To beef up your account’s security, the app utilizes two-factor verification, which requires you to provide codes before logging in. Like Google Authenticator, LastPass Authenticator, and several others, it generates a six-digit code every 30 seconds, which you will need to type in as you log in.
This tool makes it easier to enter any of your Microsoft accounts through codes. However, this feature does not work on non-Microsoft sites. You need to provide your username and password on other account types, such as Google and Facebook before you can add in the code. Furthermore, it only supports other websites that use TOTP—time-based one-time password—standard. It does not work on services that use HOTP standard code, such as Twitter and banking apps.
First-time users need to create their credentials and choose whether to use the app for personal, work, or school. After a successful login, you will need to authenticate with a code. Once you input the code, it will link to all your Microsoft account, and you can use it for no-password sign-ins. For non-Microsoft accounts, you need to add them to your list in the app. The websites will then require you to provide a code for every login.
Get your accounts secured
Microsoft Authenticator offers a reliable security solution for all your online accounts. It works not only on Microsoft services but on other websites as well. More, it is easy to use and links to all your Microsoft accounts. In addition to manually entering the code, you can even opt to use a QR code if you wish. If you want to keep your data away from hackers and online snoopers, this app is a must.
