Authenticator Apps on School-Issued Devices

Tags MFA 2FA

Summary:
For schools that do not allow students to carry personal cell phones, authenticator apps can be installed on school-issued devices to support secure login. This article introduces common options and considerations for schools.

At a Glance

  • Windows Devices / Tablets (including iPads): Microsoft Authenticator

  • MacBooks: iPhone version of Microsoft Authenticator

  • Chromebooks: Google Authenticator

Overview

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an important part of account security. While most people install authenticator apps on their personal phones, some schools do not allow students to carry cell phones during the school day. In these cases, authenticator apps can be installed on school-issued devices such as Windows laptops, tablets, MacBooks, or Chromebooks.

Common Options by Device Type

  • Windows Devices (laptops and tablets): Microsoft Authenticator is available through the Microsoft Store and integrates smoothly with Microsoft 365 environments.

  • Tablets (iPads and other tablets): Microsoft Authenticator is available for download and works well on tablet devices.

  • MacBooks: Modern MacBooks are able to run iPhone apps, and the Microsoft Authenticator app for iPhone should work in this environment.

  • Chromebooks: Google Authenticator is available for Chromebook users and can be a practical choice, particularly if the school already uses Google Workspace.

Other Authenticator Apps

While Microsoft Authenticator and Google Authenticator are the most common, other apps may also work. Each school’s IT staff should review available options to determine what best fits their technology environment and student needs.

Deployment Considerations

  • Confirm that your device management system (e.g., MDM settings, App Store or Play Store restrictions, firewall rules) allows installation of authenticator apps.

  • Consider how well the chosen app integrates with your school’s existing platform (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or other systems).

  • Test app performance on a small group of devices before rolling out broadly.

Important Notes

  • These recommendations come from Northeast Community College for awareness purposes only.

  • Each school’s IT staff is responsible for evaluating, approving, and deploying the authenticator solution that aligns with their students, devices, and technology stack.

  • Northeast can provide recommendations and general guidance, but final decisions and deployment must be handled by the school.

Need Help?

If your school has questions about authenticator app options, please reach out to your IT staff first. For additional questions, the Service Center at Northeast Community College is available for consultation. The Service Center can be reached by emailing help@northeast.edu. 

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