Microsoft Authenticator Backup and Recovery

For security reasons, starting on October 2, 2026, SMS (text messages) and voice-calls will no longer be permitted as options for usable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) within the Vol State environment. This is in preparation of Microsoft retiring its own SMS and voice-call MFA delivery on February 1, 2027. 

The Microsoft Authenticator app (iOS & Android) is recommended as the modern alternative for authentication.

Microsoft Authenticator is the most popular method of authenticating into your account here at Volunteer State Community College. It is important to backup your account in case of the event that you get a new phone. However, if you still have access to your old device, you can back up your data and restore it to your new device.

iOS

1. Open the Authenticator App, and select the "Hamburger Button" ( ☰ )
2. Go to "Settings," then select "iCloud Backup."
3. You can close the app when the backup is complete.

Android

1. Open the Authenticator App, and select the "Kebab Button" ( ⋮ )
2. Select "Turn on backup."
3. You can close the app when the backup is complete.

NOTE: This will also allow you to change the backup email address, make sure it is your personal email.

Recovery

1. On your new device, open the Authenticator App and select "Begin Recovery" before signing in.
2. Sign in to the same personal Microsoft account that you used for the backup.
3. Wait for the recovery to complete, and verify that your accounts have been backed-up successfully.

What do I do if I could not backup my data?

If your backup failed, or if you did not get a chance to back it up, please contact the Vol State IT Help Desk.

Also Reference:

Back up account credentials in Microsoft Authenticator

Need Help?

Contact the IT Help Desk at (615) 230-3302 with any questions or feedback.