Authenticator keeps logging me out instead of logging me in

Kaja 0 Reputation points
2026-09-13T14:35:54.2666667+00:00

I haven't been able to find anyone else having the same issue, when I try to log onto my accounts using Microsoft authenticator, especially my school email, it asks me to log in and input the authenticator code. I do that and then instead of logging me in it says "wait a moment while we log you out" and logs me out.. at first I thought I must have clicked log out instead of log in, but it makes no sense, why would I have to input my password and code to log OUT?! I have tried clearing cookies, using different devices and using different browsers, but the problem still persists, I have tried several times in a row and it still says its logging me out.. I even removed the account from the list and added it again, and it still logs me out instead of logging me in..

Microsoft 365 and Office | Subscription, account, billing | For education | Other
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  1. AI answer

    2026-09-13T14:36:12.4433333+00:00

    This looks like an Authenticator sign-in failure or MFA loop rather than a normal sign-out action. Since clearing cookies, switching browsers/devices, and re-adding the account did not help, use these steps next:

    1. Wait a few minutes, then try again once. Repeated sign-in attempts can trigger Microsoft Entra multifactor authentication protections and temporarily block more attempts.
    2. Open Microsoft Authenticator directly and verify the app itself is healthy. Make sure:
      • the app opens without errors
      • it is responsive
      • the school account is listed
      • the app is unlocked
    3. Update the app and device components.
      • Update Microsoft Authenticator from the app store.
      • If this is a work or school device, also update Company Portal and confirm the device is compliant.
      • Make sure the device OS is up to date.
    4. Check notification and device settings.
      • Turn on Authenticator notifications.
      • Make sure battery optimization is turned off for Authenticator.
      • Verify the device date and time are correct.
    5. Check connectivity.
      • Switch between Wi‑Fi and mobile data.
      • Make sure Airplane mode is off.
      • If a VPN is enabled, disconnect it and test again.
    6. Restart the device.
    7. If the app shows an authentication prompt but never completes, check for these common causes:
      • silent or disabled notifications
      • outdated Authenticator version
      • network disruption
      • app locked on the device
    8. Send logs from the app before asking for help. In Authenticator, open the top-level menu or Settings and use Send feedback.

    Because the affected account is a school account, if the issue continues after the steps above, the next action is to contact the school IT admin or helpdesk. They can investigate the Microsoft Entra sign-in logs and help with the MFA configuration for the work/school account.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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  2. Heimerdinger 380 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-13T15:17:50.0366667+00:00

    Hi @Kaja, 

    Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum. 

    I’m very sorry to hear about your situation. Regarding that you’re unable to log in to your account.          

    If you are an end user I would recommend you contact your account's Admin to reset your MFA settings through the Microsoft Entra Admin Center. Ask your administrator to follow these steps:                  

    Revoke MFA sessions and require re-register in the Microsoft Entra admin center         

    1. Sign in to Microsoft Entra admin center with the admin account   
    2. Go to Users   
    3. Select the affected user account   
    4. Open Authentication methods   
    5. Revoke sessions   
    6. Select Require re‑register MFA   
    7. Save the changes                 

    Revoke MFA sessions and require re-register in the Microsoft Entra admin center                

     User's image

      

    You could provide your admin this article for a better view: Manage authentication methods for Microsoft Entra multifactor authentication - Microsoft Entra ID |…               

    If you’re unsure who the Global Admin is within your organization, you can find guidance on locating them here: How do I find my Microsoft 365 admin? - Microsoft Support.                  

    Thank you again for your time and understanding. I really appreciate your patience, and I’m here to help. Looking forward to your response.                       

    If the answer is helpful, please click "Yes". If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".    

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