How to Set up Authenticator Passkey

Summary

This article explains how to sign in to Microsoft online 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, password-free sign-in.

Body

Summary

This article explains how to sign in to Microsoft online 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, password-free sign-in.

Information Applies To

Faculty, Staff, Current Students, New Students

Before You Begin

To use Microsoft Passkeys, 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 phone or device

Instructions

Step 1. Sign in and Set Up MFA

  1. Log into Microsoft online using your Minnesota State Microsoft account.

Username:
     Students: StarID@go.minnstate.edu
     Employees: StarID@minnstate.edu

Password:
     Your StarID password

  1. 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: Make sure you use your own phone or device when setting up MFA.

Step 2. Create a Passkey in Microsoft Authenticator

  1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.
  2. Tap your employee or student account.
  3. Tap Create a Passkey.

Create a passkey

  1. Complete MFA verification on your phone when prompted.
  2. When the app confirms Passkey created, tap Done.

Your Passkey is now ready to use.

3. Sign In Using Your Passkey

Important: Bluetooth must be enabled on your phone or device.

  1. At the Microsoft sign‑in screen, select Sign‑in options.

Select Sign-in options

  1. Choose Face, Fingerprint, PIN, or Security key.
  2. Select iPhone, iPad, or Android device.
  3. A QR code will appear on your computer screen.
  4. Open your camera app on your mobile device and scan the QR code.

Scan the code with your phone's camera app

  1. Tap the link that appears on your mobile device.
  2. On your mobile device, tap Continue to sign in with your Passkey.

You will be signed in automatically once authentication is complete. 

Learn More

Need additional information or assistance? 

Details

Details

Article ID: 4869
Created
Tue 2/17/26 2:48 PM
Modified
Mon 3/2/26 6:07 PM

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