Transferring the Microsoft Authenticator app from an old device to a new one is a relatively simple process, but it requires a few steps to ensure that all your accounts and two-factor authentication (2FA) information are correctly transferred. Follow this step-by-step guide to complete the transfer without any issues.
1. Preparation of the Old Device
- Backup Authenticator Data: Make sure you have an up-to-date backup of your Authenticator information. This can be done through the app settings. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your old device and go to Settings > Backup. Enable cloud backup (this usually uses your Microsoft account).
- Update the App: Ensure that the Microsoft Authenticator app on your old device is updated to the latest version available. This will help avoid compatibility issues during the transfer.
2. Installation on the New Device
- Download and Install the App: On your new device, go to the Google Play Store (for Android devices) or the App Store (for iOS devices) and download the Microsoft Authenticator app.
- Log into the App: Once installed, open the app and follow the instructions to set it up. During the initial setup, you will be prompted to log into your Microsoft account.
3. Restore the Backup
- Restore the Backup: After logging into your Microsoft account on the new device, the app will offer you the option to restore an existing backup. If you successfully backed up on the old device, you should see the option to restore data. Select this option and wait for the restoration process to complete.
- Verify Accounts: Once the restoration is complete, verify that all your accounts have been transferred correctly. Open the app and check that all your two-factor authentication entries are present and functioning.
4. Reset the QR Code(s)
If the Microsoft Authenticator app requires you to restore your account by scanning the QR Code received from your organization again, you must follow these steps (once for each account):
- Connect to the site https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info , and log in with your account
- Select the tenant for the account you want to restore (if you have only one tenant, this step is not necessary)
- In the Security information section, click the Add access method button
- Select Microsoft Authenticator and follow the on-screen instructions until the QR Code appears
- Scan the QR Code and follow the on-screen instructions: the system will send a test notification, authorizing which will allow you to complete the procedure and add the new device
- Delete the previous device (if you intend to dispose of it)
5. Deactivation of the Old Device
- Deactivate Authenticator on the Old Device: Once confirmed that everything works correctly on the new device, you can deactivate the Microsoft Authenticator app on the old device. This can be done by going into the app settings and selecting the option to remove the account or disable two-factor authentication for each account.
- Delete the App (Optional): If you no longer need the app on the old device, you can also delete it to free up space.
Final Considerations
Transferring the Microsoft Authenticator app is a relatively simple process if you carefully follow the steps outlined above. It is important to ensure you have an up-to-date backup and to verify that all authentication entries are working on the new device before deactivating the app on the old device. If you encounter any issues during the process, consult the official Microsoft support guide for further assistance.
With these steps, you should be able to successfully transfer the Microsoft Authenticator app and continue protecting your accounts with two-factor authentication.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the official Microsoft guide here.
