News
Microsoft SMS and Voice Authentication Retirement
Overview
Microsoft is retiring its native SMS and voice authentication services in Microsoft Entra ID and is transitioning users toward more secure, phishing-resistant authentication methods such as passkeys, Microsoft Authenticator, Windows Hello for Business, and FIDO2 security keys. Starting September 1, 2026, eligible users may begin receiving Microsoft-managed prompts encouraging passkey registration. Beginning February 1, 2027, Microsoft-provided SMS and voice authentication services will be retired. Users who rely solely on SMS or voice authentication will need to register an alternative supported authentication method to continue signing in.
What is Changing?
Microsoft is making passkeys the default authentication experience in Microsoft Entra ID. As part of this change:
September 1, 2026
Users enabled for SMS or voice authentication may begin receiving prompts encouraging them to register a passkey during sign in. According to Microsoft's current documentation, these prompts are intended to encourage registration and are not expected to block access.
February 1, 2027
Microsoft-provided SMS and voice authentication services will be retired. Users whose only authentication methods are SMS or voice will be required to register a supported alternative authentication method in order to continue accessing their accounts.
Network Maintenance – Spencer Hall - Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026
The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) advises that there will be network maintenance impacting Spencer Hall between the hours of 12 a.m. and 2 a.m. on Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026. This work will impact all floors. During this time there will be a 10-to-15-minute network outages to wired and wireless, including VoIP telephony. Connectivity will return automatically after the work is completed. For more information, please contact the OCIO Service Desk.
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