Easy Tech TutsHow to Get Outlook QR Code for Authenticator App Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Locking down your Outlook account with an authenticator app adds a strong layer of protection against unauthorized access. This guide walks through finding the security dashboard, generating the QR code, and pairing it with an authenticator app like Microsoft Authenticator on your phone.
01Open your security dashboard
Navigate to account.microsoft.com and sign into your primary account.
02Go to Security settings
Click the Security tab in the top application menu.
03Open advanced security options
Click into the Advanced security options dashboard tile.
04Verify your identity
Re-enter your credentials or use your device passkey to unlock the advanced protection settings.
05Start the QR setup
Under Additional security, click Add a new way to sign in or verify, choose Use an app, then select the option to set up a different authenticator app to reveal the QR code.
06Scan and confirm
Open your authenticator app, tap the plus icon, choose Scan QR code, align your camera with the screen, then enter the rolling 6-digit code to complete the link.
Frequently asked questions
What authenticator apps can I use?
Microsoft Authenticator is the native option, but most standard TOTP-based authenticator apps can scan the same QR code.
What if my phone camera won't scan the code?
Most authenticator apps also offer a manual entry option using a text code shown alongside the QR image.
Should I save backup recovery codes too?
Yes, saving emergency recovery codes is recommended in case you lose access to your authenticator app.
How do I know the pairing worked?
Enter the rolling 6-digit numeric code generated by your app into the web validation field to confirm the connection.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
