Manage Your Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Methods

Overview

Microsoft is retiring SMS text message and phone-call authentication methods beginning February 1, 2027. If you currently use these methods to verify your identity when signing in to your OHIO account, you should add and use another authentication method before that date.

This article will show you how to:

• Review your current authentication methods
• Add a new authentication method
• Change your default authentication method
• Remove outdated devices or phone numbers
• Make sure your account is ready for upcoming Microsoft MFA changes

This information is also available in our video tutorial.

Recommended Authentication Methods

Ohio University recommends the following authentication methods:

• Microsoft Authenticator App - preferred
• Passkeys
• Hardware Security Token (where applicable)

It is also recommended that you register at least two authentication methods whenever possible. This can help you regain access to your account if you lose or replace a device.

Review Your Current Authentication Methods

1. Visit the Microsoft Security Info page: https://mysignins.microsoft/com/security-info
2. Sign in with your OHIO account if prompted
3. Review the authentication methods currently listed on your account

Examples may include:

• Microsoft Authenticator
• Phone (support ending Feb. 2027)
• Text message (support ending Feb. 2027)
• Passkey
• Hardware Token

Take a moment to verify that:

• Your information is current
• Your devices are still available to you
• You recognize all listed authentication methods
• You have enabled the Microsoft Authenticator app as your preferred authentication method

Add a New Authentication Method

1. One the Security Info page, select +Add sign-in method
2. Select the authentication method you want to add
3. Follow the prompts to complete enrollment

Recommended Option: Microsoft Authenticator

1. Select Authenticator App
2. Install Microsoft Authenticator on your mobile device if you have not already done so
3. Follow the prompts to pair your account with the app
4. Complete the verification process

For detailed setup instructions, visit our Enrolling in Microsoft MFA knowledge base article.

Change Your Default Authentication Method

Your default authentication method is the method Microsoft attempts to use first when verification is required.

To update your default method:

1. Sign in to: https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info
2. Select Change next to Default sign-in method.
3. Choose your preferred authentication method.
4. Select Save.

Ohio University recommends selecting Microsoft Authenticator or another supported authentication method. Effective September 14, 2026 no new enrollments in SMS text message or phone-call authentication will be permitted.

Remove an Old Authentication Method

If you have replaced a phone, changed your number, or no longer use a device:

1. Sign in to: https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info
2. Locate the method you want to remove.
3. Select Delete.
4. Confirm the deletion.

Important: Before removing an authentication method, make sure you have another working method configured on your account.

Is My Account Ready?

Your account is ready if:

• You have at least one supported authentication method configured.
• You can successfully access that authentication method.
• Your phone number and device information are current.
• Your default authentication method is not SMS text message or phone-call authentication.
• You know how to access your backup authentication method if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions