Using the Microsoft Authenticator auto generated code as backup sign-in method The auto generated code can be used as a backup sign-in method when your mobile device has no connectivity. The Microsoft Authenticator application automatically generated codes which can be used for sign-ins even when push notification is set as your default sign-in method. You can read more on number matching in my other blog post. MFA number matching changes the “ Approve” or “Deny” behavior and will be enabled by default after 27 February 2023. This backup method can be used in situations when you have no connectivity on your mobile device.

The Microsoft Authenticator application provides a backup sign-in method when configured to use push notifications. This may be a concern as you may think that you will not be able to complete the sign-in request in these situations. This would mean that you also cannot use the text method as a backup sign-in method. You won’t be able to receive any text (SMS) messages when your mobile device has no signal. When your mobile device has no data, you will not be able to receive these push notifications.

When push notification is enabled for the Microsoft Authenticator application you would receive a notification on your device which you can approve or deny to complete sign-in. This could be an issue with data connectivity only or complete connectivity issues on the mobile device such as having no signal. The scenario for this would be that you have connectivity on your workstation to access cloud applications, but your mobile device has no connectivity. The Authenticator application functions as the primary and backup sign-in method. You can use the Microsoft Authenticator application to complete MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) sign-in when your mobile device has no connectivity.

Microsoft authenticator app login