Does Xbox Live work with authenticator apps like MS Authenticator App?

Yes. Xbox Live supports TOTP authenticator apps, so you can generate its two-factor codes in MS Authenticator App.

Is Xbox Live two-factor authentication free?

Yes. Enabling authenticator-app 2FA on Xbox Live is free — you only need the free MS Authenticator App.

What if I lose access to my Xbox Live 2FA codes?

Use the backup or recovery codes you saved during setup. If you didn't save them, contact Xbox Live support to regain access, then re-add the account to MS Authenticator App.

How to enable 2FA on Xbox Live

← Xbox Live overview Supported

Xbox Live supports app-based two-factor authentication (2FA). Turning it on adds a second layer of protection, so a stolen password alone can't unlock your Xbox Live account.

Step-by-step setup

1
Sign in to Xbox Live and open your Xbox Live account security settings.
2
Turn on two-factor authentication and choose the authenticator-app option.
Look for "Authenticator app", "Authentication app", or "TOTP" rather than SMS.
3
Scan the QR code with MS Authenticator App.
Open MS Authenticator App, tap add, and point your camera at the QR code Xbox Live displays. Can't scan? Enter the setup key manually instead.
4
Enter the 6-digit code to confirm.
Type the code MS Authenticator App generates to verify and link your Xbox Live account.
5
Save your backup codes.
Store the recovery codes Xbox Live gives you somewhere safe — you'll need them if you lose your phone.

Menu names on Xbox Live can change — the official Xbox Live 2FA documentation ↗ always has the exact, current path.

Frequently asked questions

Does Xbox Live work with authenticator apps like MS Authenticator App?: Yes. Xbox Live supports TOTP authenticator apps, so you can generate its two-factor codes in MS Authenticator App.
Is Xbox Live two-factor authentication free?: Yes. Enabling authenticator-app 2FA on Xbox Live is free — you only need the free MS Authenticator App.
What if I lose access to my Xbox Live 2FA codes?: Use the backup or recovery codes you saved during setup. If you didn't save them, contact Xbox Live support to regain access, then re-add the account to MS Authenticator App.

Generate your Xbox Live codes in MS Authenticator App

Free, offline, and encrypted. One tap for every 6-digit code.

Get the app

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