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To change the recovery account on Android, turn off Cloud Backup and confirm deletion of the existing backup, then turn it back on and sign in with the account you want to use. On iPhone or iPad, backup depends on Apple’s iCloud settings and Authenticator being enabled in Saved to iCloud. Restores work only between the same device type, and some accounts require sign-in again after recovery.
Change the backup account on Android
- Open Microsoft Authenticator, open the menu, and select Settings.
- Under Backup, turn on Cloud Backup and sign in to a Microsoft personal account if prompted.
- If the wrong account is already associated with the backup, turn Cloud Backup off and confirm that you want to delete the existing backup.
- Turn Cloud Backup on again. Select Continue or Change account, then sign in with the intended account.
Turning backup off deletes the old backup; it does not move it to another account. You create a new backup under the account you choose when enabling backup. See Microsoft’s Android backup instructions for the current flow.
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Check iCloud backup settings on iPhone or iPad
Microsoft’s current iOS guidance uses iCloud rather than the Android Cloud Backup flow. On the Apple device, enable iCloud Drive, iCloud Keychain, and iCloud Backup, then make sure Authenticator is turned on in the device’s Saved to iCloud list. Microsoft’s backup instructions describe this iCloud setup.
An older Microsoft support article describes a Microsoft personal account as the iOS recovery account. Where that conflicts with the current iOS-specific iCloud instructions, follow the current platform guidance rather than the older account-based description.
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key C NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key C NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key C NFC via USB-C and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
Restore on a replacement phone or tablet
A backup cannot be moved between Android and iOS: Microsoft supports restoring an iOS backup to iOS, or an Android backup to Android. Start recovery on the new device before adding accounts to Authenticator.
- Install Microsoft Authenticator on the replacement device.
- When prompted, choose Restore from backup or Begin recovery.
- Sign in using the account used for the backup, or complete the iCloud-based recovery flow on iOS.
- After recovery, open each restored account and complete any requested sign-in or verification.
If Restore from backup or Begin recovery does not appear, Microsoft advises removing or signing out of accounts in Authenticator before starting recovery. See Microsoft’s restore instructions.
Rank #2
- FIDO2 & Passkey Ready: Business-ready and FIDO2 L1 certified. This key is supported by major management suites and is ideal for both individual and enterprise deployment. Works seamlessly with Gmail, Facebook, GitHub, Dropbox, Coinbase, and more.
- Dedicated Manager App: Use the Thetis Manager App for the initial hardware PIN setup. Setting the PIN on the device first ensures a smooth registration process. Once the PIN is configured, you can begin registering the key across your favorite FIDO2-compatible online services.
- Universal Connectivity (USB-C, USB-A, & NFC): Designed for PCs, Macs, iPhones, and Android. For mobile use, simply unfold the key, align it with your phone’s NFC antenna, and hold for a few seconds to authenticate.
- Enhanced MFA (FIDO2 & TOTP/HOTP): Strengthen your security with flexible options. Use the Manager App to access TOTP/HOTP features for accounts that do not yet support FIDO2.
- Check FIDO2 compatibility before purchase - Known limitations: ID Austria is not supported (requires FIDO2 Level 2). Windows Hello login only works with Windows Enterprise editions that support Entra ID. NFC is supported only through mobile authentication, Not MacOS/windows.
What a restore brings back
| Account type | What returns | What to expect next |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Microsoft account using one-time password codes | Codes | Use the restored codes as needed. |
| Personal Microsoft account with passwordless sign-in | Account name only | Sign in again to set up access. |
| Work or school account | Account name only | Sign in again and complete any required verification. |
| Third-party account, such as Amazon, Facebook, or Gmail | One-time password codes | Use the restored codes as needed. |
A visible account name after restore does not necessarily mean its sign-in method is ready to use. Microsoft explains the distinctions in its backup guidance and restore guidance.
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Check Microsoft’s iOS recovery checklist in this order:
Rank #3
- FIDO2 + FIDO U2F certified and supported USB security key
- Supports Computers, Laptops, Tablets, and Mobile Devices with a USB-C port and/or NFC
- Works without downloading any drivers. Supported OS: Android, Chrome OS, Windows, MacOS, Linux
- Durable design made to last for a long time with everyday use. Water-resistant (IP67)
- Helps protect your accounts from phishing and other cyber-attacks. Prevents your devices from unauthorized use.
- Confirm iCloud Drive, iCloud Keychain, and iCloud Backup are enabled.
- Confirm Authenticator is enabled in the device’s Saved to iCloud list.
- Make sure Microsoft Authenticator is version 6.8.33 or later.
- Open Authenticator on the old device at least once before switching to the new device.
- If the backup still does not appear, reinstall Authenticator on the new device and try recovery again.
If you cannot access iCloud itself, Microsoft directs users to Apple Support’s iCloud restore guidance. For other restore problems, consult Microsoft Authenticator FAQs.
What changes in January 2027 for Android backup
Microsoft says that starting in January 2027, Android users will no longer enable Authenticator backup with a Microsoft personal account; they will need to enable Microsoft Authenticator from Google One backup instead. This is a future change, so follow Microsoft’s current backup instructions if setting up backup on or after that date.
Rank #4
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5 is a versatile physical passkey that protects your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 via USB and tap it to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
When a work or school account will not sign in
Sign in again after restoring the account name and complete the verification requested by your organization. Administrators can control some Authenticator features and enrollment. If an organization policy prevents setup or verification, contact your IT administrator; Microsoft’s account setup guidance covers adding accounts.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FIDO2/Passkey Authentication – Secure, passwordless login with supported platforms. Check if your intended service supports hardware keys before purchase. Works with Gmail, Facebook, GitHub, Dropbox, and more.
- Enhanced Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Strengthen account security using either FIDO2.0 authentication or TOTP/HOTP codes, providing flexible options for added protection.
- Universal Connectivity: Features USB-A and NFC compatibility, making it easy to use across various devices including PCs, Macs, iPhones, and Android phones for seamless integration.
- Durable & Portable Design: Built with a 360° rotating metal cover for extra durability. Compact and lightweight, it easily attaches to a keychain for on-the-go convenience. No batteries or network required, ensuring dependable use anywhere.
- FIDO Certified & Business-Ready: Certified for FIDO standards and supported by a range of management software suites, ideal for both individual users and enterprise deployment.
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