Authenticator app FRUSTRATING

Question

Authenticator app FRUSTRATING

Shae Hudson 0

Why is this app even in existence???? Before you say extra security, it doesn’t provide anything but a headache. My son nor I can login platter replacing our phones. Such a headache. Discontinue this horrendous process

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2 answers

Your answer

Answer 1

Shae Hudson 0

Your way doesn’t work.

Jeronimo Fuerte 45,585 Reputation points Independent Advisor

2026-07-14T20:35:16.94+00:00

Which of the options are you trying to update: a Microsoft account or a third-party account?

To update the Microsoft Authenticator installation, you will need to use another verification method first. When you enable two-step verification, the system requires you to register more than one verification method, so you should be able to select “Use a different verification option” during sign-in.

Once you verify your identity using another available method, you can access your account security settings and update the Microsoft Authenticator installation details.
Shae Hudson 0 Reputation points

2026-07-14T21:08:45.8633333+00:00

The only available methods are via being able to sign in. Something I can’t do. They send a code and I have to log in to use it. They ask for qr code that I can access. Security key, I can’t access. This app is frustrating and unnecessary yet my son can’t get into his college account without it.
Jeronimo Fuerte 45,585 Reputation points Independent Advisor

2026-07-14T21:32:37.51+00:00

As I mentioned, you need to first make the change here:
https://account.live.com/proofs/manage/additional

You will need to verify the account. There, you select and use a different method when you are requested to enter the code.

If you get this box,

Close it, and after that, you will see this one on the site:

Select Sign in another way, then use the password.

Answer 2

If you reinstalled the app or switched to a new phone, and this is a Microsoft account, you'll need to remove the previous Microsoft Authenticator registration and add it again from your security settings. Microsoft agents don't have access to this:

https://account.live.com/proofs/manage/additional

If this is a third-party account, you must back up your accounts before reinstalling the app or changing devices, as explained here:

https://support.microsoft.com/account-billing/back-up-your-accounts-in-microsoft-authenticator-bb939936-7a8d-4e88-bc43-49bc1a700a40

If you didn't create a backup before reinstalling or changing phones, you'll need to contact the support team for the service you're trying to access. They can advise you on the process to update or reset your Microsoft Authenticator registration for their service.