You will need both a computer and your mobile device in front of you to set this up. 

Start on the computer by either logging into your KCS email at mail.office365.com or you can sign directly into mysignins.microsoft.com with your KCS email username and password.

You will get a pop-up that says MORE INFORMATION REQUIRED. Click “next”. 

Decide whether you want to use the MICROSOFT AUTHENTICATOR APP on your smartphone (highly recommended.. easier and more secure) or set up to receive a CODE direct from Microsoft on your PHONE by text or automated call (no app will be installed on your phone).

Method 1: Authenticator App

When you get this screen, click “Next”.

When you get this screen, click “Next”.

When you get this screen, STOP and go download the AUTHENTICATOR APP on your smartphone.

From your app store, download the Microsoft Authenticator app to your phone (it’s free). Make sure the icon looks like the one in the picture. Open the app and AGREE to the data collection statement. On the next screen, choose Scan QR code. The authenticator app will ask permission to use your camera. Click OK. Depending on your phone, you may get a pop-up about using Face ID or other methods to unlock the app.

Now, go back to the “mysignins” page on your computer and scan the QR code.

Click “allow” if the app asks about notifications. Once you’ve scanned the QR code, you will see that your account has been added to the authenticator app. Go back to your computer and click “next”.

To “try out” the app, Microsoft Authenticator will send an approval request to the Authenticator app. 

Open the Authenticator app and enter the two digit number shown on the computer screen and press “yes."

On the computer, click “Next” when you see “Notification Approved.

You have successfully set up your security information! Click “Done”

Method 2: Phone (text or call)

Follow the directions on page 1 of this document. When you get to this page, click “I want to set up a different method”.

From the drop-down, choose “phone”

Enter your phone number…. choose “Text me a code” or “Call me” and then click “Next”.

Microsoft will send a text to your phone with a six-digit code. Type the code into the space indicated and click “next". You will get a verification pop-up that your phone was registered successfully. Click “next”.

You have successfully set up your security information! Click “Done”

Transfer Microsoft Authenticator To Your New Phone

After purchasing a new phone, users may find that their KCS information continues to be directed to the authenticator app on the old phone. This issue can prevent access to email, Canvas, and other services due to the inability to retrieve the necessary authenticator codes. This issue can be fixed by following the directions below before switching to the new phone or by calling the KCS IT Help Desk at 865-594-1830 and requesting a reset of the Microsoft Authenticator App. 

Log into: mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info

Click “Delete” on the right of the “Microsoft Authenticator” method

Click “Add method”

Click the drop-down arrow, and choose “Authenticator App”. Click “Add”

Scroll to the top of this article and follow the directions from Method 1: Authenticator App

Two digit code