Passkey Authentication for Microsoft 365 and Other Online Services

Tags M365

Introduction

Passkey authentication allows MFA‑enabled MinnState users to sign in to Microsoft 365 and other online services without a password. Instead, you use the Microsoft Authenticator app with a passkey to securely confirm your identity.

Note: Microsoft Authenticator passwordless push is used to sign in without a password by sending a notification to your phone, where you approve the sign‑in using number matching.
Microsoft Authenticator passkey is used to sign in without a password by scanning a QR code with the Microsoft Authenticator app, and then confirming with a biometric or PIN. Bluetooth must be enabled between the computer and device.

 

Before You Begin

To use Microsoft Passkeys, you must:

  • Be able to sign in with your Minnesota State Microsoft account
  • Complete MFA setup using the Microsoft Authenticator app
  • Have Bluetooth enabled on your phone or device

Instructions

Step 1. Sign in and Set Up MFA

  1. Log into Microsoft online using your Minnesota State Microsoft account.

Username:
     Students: StarID@go.minnstate.edu
     Employees: StarID@minnstate.edu

Password:
     Your StarID password

  1. When prompted, Set up Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.
  • Refer to the setup instructions for your device:

Tip: Make sure you use your own phone or device when setting up MFA.

Step 2. Create a Passkey in Microsoft Authenticator

  1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.
  2. Tap your employee or student account.
  3. Tap Create a Passkey.

Create a passkey

  1. Complete MFA verification on your phone when prompted.
  2. When the app confirms Passkey created, tap Done.

Your Passkey is now ready to use.

3. Sign In Using Your Passkey

Important: Bluetooth must be enabled on your phone or device.

  1. At the Microsoft sign‑in screen, select Sign‑in options.

Select Sign-in options

  1. Choose Face, Fingerprint, PIN, or Security key.
  2. Select iPhone, iPad, or Android device.
  3. A QR code will appear on your computer screen.
  4. Open your camera app on your mobile device and scan the QR code.

Scan the code with your phone's camera app

  1. Tap the link that appears on your mobile device.
  2. On your mobile device, tap Continue to sign in with your Passkey.

You will be signed in automatically once authentication is complete. 

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