setting up email

An 8-digit code usually means the Microsoft Authenticator app is showing a code for a personal Microsoft account. When Outlook or Azure asks for a 6-digit code, that usually means the sign-in is expecting a work or school account MFA method instead.

Use the account entry in Authenticator that matches the account type being requested:

1. Check whether the sign-in is for a personal Microsoft account or a work/school account.
2. In Microsoft Authenticator, make sure the account was added with the correct account type.
   • Personal Microsoft accounts can show 8-digit codes.
   • Work or school accounts typically use 6-digit codes or approval prompts.
3. If the wrong account type was added, remove that Authenticator registration and add it again using the correct account type.
4. If the sign-in page offers another verification method, use that instead.
5. If using Outlook mobile for sign-in, a one-time code can be retrieved in the Outlook app:
   • Open Outlook.
   • Tap the top-left Home icon.
   • Tap the Settings gear.
   • Under General, tap Accounts and select the account.
   • Tap Sign-in requests.
   • Copy the code and paste it into the sign-in page.

If the account is a personal Outlook.com account and two-step verification is being set up for Outlook app access, turn on two-step verification and create an app password:

1. Sign in to Outlook.com.
2. Select the gear icon.
3. Go to Options > Account details.
4. On account.live.com, select Security & Privacy > More Security Settings.
5. Select Set up two-step verification.
6. After verification, select Create a new app password and use that password in Outlook.

References:

• 2-Step Authentication
• Using Outlook mobile to sign in
• Authenticator generates 8 digits and Azure requires 6 digits - Microsoft Q&A
• Authenticator App not working for personal and work emails - Microsoft Q&A