Separate Computer - Configuring MFA
Before you start
- Do not install the app and sign in; you must follow step-by-step instructions. Skipping steps can cause setup problems.
- Do not skip Step 8, which requires you to scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen.
- Watch for stop signs and switch between your computer screen, phone screen and authenticator app as directed.
- On new devices must register Microsoft Authenticator app again, requires old device or must contact service desk for assistance.
Please note
To install the Microsoft Authenticator App, your device must meet the following requirements:
- Android: Version 8.0 or higher
- iPhone/iPad: iOS 17 or higher
Step-by-Step Instructions to Set Up MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator App from a Separate Computer
Step 1
On your computer screen:
Sign-in to My Sign In | Security Info with your VSB email and password.
You will be brought to a screen on your computer that states “Improve your sign-ins". Click Next.
Step 2
On your computer screen:
Click 'Next' on the screen shown below.
DO NOT download the Microsoft Authenticator App at this step to avoid confusion.
Step 3
On your computer screen:
Click 'Next' on the screen shown below.
Step 4
On your computer screen:
You will be presented with a QR code on your computer. Do not click on anything yet on this screen.
Step 5
On your mobile device:
Install the Microsoft Authenticator app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, depending on your mobile device type.
Install the Microsoft Authenticator App on your mobile device.
Step 6
On your Microsoft Authenticator App:
Click through the following screens on your Microsoft Authenticator App.
- Select “Accept”
On your Microsoft Authenticator App:
- Select ‘Continue’. You do not have to click the toggle.
Step 7
On your Microsoft Authenticator App:
Proceed with caution and DO NOT select ‘Add work or school account’ as doing so will cause errors in the setup process.
- Stop at the screen on your mobile device that says, ‘Scan a QR code’.
- Click ‘ALLOW’ to allow the app to use your camera.
Step 8
On your mobile device:
IMPORTANT! DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP. SKIPPING IT WILL CAUSE SETUP ISSUES.
Using your mobile device, scan the QR code being presented on the web page on your computer.
Click 'Allow' for Microsoft Authenticator to send notifications.
Step 9
On your computer screen:
Click ‘Next.’ on your computer screen after scanning the QR code.
Step 10
On your computer screen and on your Microsoft Authenticator App:
You will be presented with a 2 digit code on your computer.
Enter the code on your mobile device. Select ‘Yes’.
Step 11
On your computer screen:
Success! You will see a message saying ‘Authenticator Added’ on your computer. Click ‘Done’.
Step 12
On your mobile device:
Confirm that your work account is set up.
Step 13
IMPORTANT:
Final step.
On your computer screen:
On the My Sign In | Security Info page on your computer, please verify that the Microsoft Authenticator app is set as your default sign in method.
On your computer screen:
If it's not your default sign-in method, click 'Change' and choose 'App based authentication – notification' from the dropdown.
NOTE: On your first day using the new system, you'll see quite a few pop-ups as everything syncs up. Once that's done, you'll only get pop-ups now and then to authenticate.
Need help?
For any questions related to multi-factor authentication, please call the VSB Service Desk at +1-604-713-4444 or email at servicedesk@vsb.bc.ca