Summary
This article explains how to sign in with your Minnesota State Microsoft account, set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and create and use a passkey in the Microsoft Authenticator app for secure, passwordless sign-in.
Information Applies To
Faculty, Staff, Current Students, New Students
Before You Begin
To create and use a Microsoft Authenticator passkey, you must:
- Be able to sign in with your Minnesota State Microsoft account
- Complete MFA setup using the Microsoft Authenticator app
- Have Bluetooth enabled on your mobile device
Instructions
Step 1. Sign in and Set Up MFA
If you are already using the Microsoft Authenticator app for MFA, skip to Step 2.
-
Sign in to Microsoft online using your Minnesota State Microsoft account.
Username
Students: StarID@go.minnstate.edu
Employees: StarID@minnstate.edu
Password
Your StarID password
-
When prompted, set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.
- Refer to the setup instructions for your device:
Tip: Use a device that you personally own and control when setting up MFA and passkeys.
Step 2. Create a Passkey in the Microsoft Authenticator App
- Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.
- Tap the account for which you want to create a passkey, your employee or student account.
- Tap Create a Passkey.
- Complete MFA verification on your phone when prompted.
- When the app confirms that the passkey was created, tap Done.
Your passkey is now ready to use for passwordless sign-in.
Step 3. Sign In Using Your Passkey
Important: Bluetooth must be enabled on both your computer and your mobile device.
- At the Microsoft sign‑in screen, select Sign‑in options.
- Choose Face, Fingerprint, PIN, or Security key.
- Select iPhone, iPad, or Android device.
- A QR code will appear on your computer screen.
- Open the camera app on your mobile device and scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen. Do not scan any QR codes shown in this article.
- Tap the link that appears on your mobile device.
- On your mobile device, tap Continue to sign in with your passkey.
After authentication is complete, you will be signed in automatically.
Learn More
Need additional assistance? Contact WSU Tech Support:
Visit
- Somsen Hall 207 (Winona Campus)
- Coffman Center 122 (Rochester Campus)
Call
Email