Windows 10: Microsoft improves usability of two-factor authentication in Windows 11

Microsoft added a new usability feature to development builds of its Windows 11 operating system recently that improves two-factor authentication use on the operating system.



Two-factor authentication is a security feature that is used widely by apps, websites and services. It is an optional feature in most cases that adds a second verification step to the authentication process. When users sign-in to a site, app or service with their username and password, they are prompted to enter a second verification code to complete the process.

This new code, often a six digit number, is provided in a variety of ways. All of these have in common that the code is generated when it is requested. Some use email or SMS to send the codes to their customers, others ask customers to use authentication apps such as Authy, Microsoft Authenticator and many others instead. Apps offer the advantage of increased security. Neither email nor SMS are safe to use, as data is transmitted in clear text by default.

Two-factor authentication is an essential security feature, especially for high-value accounts. Passkeys and other advanced authentication options will likely replace two-factor authentication in the coming years as these systems offer even better security and privacy.

Windows 11: two-factor authentication improvements


Windows 11 users may install authentication apps on the device to generate these one-use codes for services and apps they use, but they may also receive codes via email or connected mobile devices.

All of these methods have in common that a code is displayed to the user that needs to be entered during the authentication process to access the app, service or site. If Disney+, Netflix or Amazon Prime are installed, these may be set up to require two-factor authentication.

Depending on the way the code is delivered, it may or may not be copied by the user to improve entering it.

Microsoft developed a new feature for Windows 11 that improves the usability of the process, at least for some use cases. Available in developer build 25252 currently, Windows 11 is capable of detecting authentication codes. The operating system displays the code, e.g., if received in the default Mail app, and displays it as a notification.

That is useful already, but Microsoft implemented an option to copy the code to the Clipboard. The new feature speeds up the process significantly. Previously, Windows 11 users had to bring the Mail app or the Authenticator app to the front, locate the code and copy it. Now, all it takes is a single click or tap on the "copy to clipboard" action displayed as part of the notification.

Microsoft admits that the new feature may sometimes fail to identify two-factor authentication codes. Testers are encouraged to provide Microsoft with details on issues that they experience when using the feature.

Closing Words

Microsoft has yet to announce when the feature will land in stable versions of Windows 11. It seems likely that it is going to be included in an update this year.

Now You: do you protect your accounts using two-factor authentication?

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New Microsoft Authenticator app version for Android and iOS - Feb. 11

UPDATE 2/22: New Microsoft Authenticator app version for Android and iOS - Feb. 22


Two factor authentication (TFA) is easy, convenient, and secure when you use Microsoft Authenticator. Use your phone, not your password, to log into your Microsoft account. Just enter your username, then approve the notification sent to your phone. Your fingerprint, face ID, or PIN will provide a second layer of security in this two step verification process. After youve signed in with two factor authentication (TFA), youll have access to all your Microsoft products and services, such as Outlook, OneDrive, Office, and more.

Microsoft Authenticator version 6.2202.0924 for Android

WHAT'S NEW

• We're always working on new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. Make sure you stay updated with the latest version for the best authentication experience.

Source: Microsoft Authenticator - Apps on Google Play




Microsoft Authenticator version 6.5.87 for iOS

What's New:

• We're always working on new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. Make sure you stay updated with the latest version for the best authentication experience.

Download: Microsoft Authenticator | App Store

 

New Microsoft Authenticator app version for Android and iOS - Sept. 3

Two factor authentication (TFA) is easy, convenient, and secure when you use Microsoft Authenticator. Use your phone, not your password, to log into your Microsoft account. Just enter your username, then approve the notification sent to your phone. Your fingerprint, face ID, or PIN will provide a second layer of security in this two step verification process. After youve signed in with two factor authentication (TFA), youll have access to all your Microsoft products and services, such as Outlook, OneDrive, Office, and more.

Microsoft Authenticator version 6.2108.5654 for Android

WHAT'S NEW

• We're always working on new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. Make sure you stay updated with the latest version for the best authentication experience.

Source: Microsoft Authenticator - Apps on Google Play




Microsoft Authenticator version 6.5.82 for iOS

What's New:

• We're always working on new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. Make sure you stay updated with the latest version for the best authentication experience.

Download: Microsoft Authenticator | App Store

 

Two factor authentication for Windows 10

Hi Pascal,

I understand that you want to know how to enable two-factor authentication for the Windows 10 sign in.

I suggest you to refer the Microsoft article on
About two-step verification and check if it helps.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-in/help/12408/microsoft-account-about-two-step-verification

Hope this information is helpful. Please do let us know if you need further assistance, we’ll be glad to assist you.