Before you begin: Use an incognito window
You might still be logged in with another account (for example, from another school or job). To avoid errors, we recommend performing the setup in an incognito window. An incognito window is a private browser window where your browsing history is not saved.
How to open an incognito window:
- In Chrome: Click the three dots in the top right > New incognito window
- In Edge: Click the three dots in the top right > New InPrivate window
- In Safari (Mac): Click File > New Private Window
Setting up two-step verification
- Download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS). Allow the app to access your camera and send notifications.
- Open the incognito window and go to: https://aka.ms/mfasetup.
- Log in with your UvA email address.
- Click on Add sign-in method and choose Authenticator app.
- A QR code will appear.
- Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone.
- Tap the plus sign or Add account.
- Choose Work or school account.
- Scan the QR code with your phone.
- After scanning, Microsoft will ask for verification. You will receive a notification on your phone. Approve it.
- Your account is now successfully linked.
Common issues and solutions
- Are you already linked to another (educational) account?
It’s possible that you are already linked to another account. In that case, choose ‘Add account’ > ‘Work or school account’ and add your UvA account using the QR code.
- Are you receiving an error message when logging in?
This often happens when you’re already signed in with a different Microsoft account. Close your browser and use an incognito window (see the explanation above).
- Can’t see a QR code or is the app not working?
Try reloading the page and make sure your Microsoft Authenticator app is up to date.
- Are you not getting push notifications on your phone to confirm login? Or are you only getting notifications when the app is already open?
Check the app settings on your phone. Make sure notifications are allowed.
- Is your two-step verification still not working correctly?
Go to https://id.medewerker.uva.nl, choose ‘I want to reset my two-step verification’, log in and choose ‘Reset two-step verification for Microsoft 365’.
- Still unable to set up two-step verification and still want to use Microsoft 365 apps?
Then ask for a temporary waiver. This is valid for 4 days. Go to https://id.medewerker.uva.nl, choose ‘I want to reset my two-step verification’ and select ‘Request temporary waiver for two-step verification for Microsoft 365’.
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