Microsoft 365 Passwordless Authentication Across Platforms

MS-102 By islever Editorial Last updated

Short answer

A Use the Microsoft Authenticator app for passwordless authentication on Windows, Android, and iOS.

Question

You have a Microsoft 365 subscription. You need to implement a passwordless authentication solution that supports the following device types: • Windows • Android • iOS The solution must use the same authentication method for all devices. Which authentication method should you use?
  1. the Microsoft Authentication app Correct Answer
  2. Voice call
  3. multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  4. Windows Hello for Business

Key Takeaways

Tests knowledge of cross-platform passwordless solutions versus platform-specific ones like Windows Hello for Business.

Identifies the Microsoft Authenticator app as the correct passwordless method for Windows, Android, and iOS. Explains why other options fail to meet cross-platform or passwordless criteria.

Common mistake: Selecting Windows Hello for Business (D), which is limited to Windows devices and does not support Android/iOS.

Expert Analysis

Why the Answer Is Correct

The Microsoft Authenticator app (Option A) is the only solution listed that supports passwordless authentication across Windows, Android, and iOS platforms. It enables features like push notifications, one-time passcodes, and number matching, allowing users to sign in without a traditional password on any supported device.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Voice call (Option B) requires a phone line and is generally considered a secondary factor rather than a primary passwordless method for all devices, and it doesn't work well with tablets or desktops lacking voice capability. Multi-factor authentication (Option C) is a framework, not a specific method, and often includes passwords unless specifically configured as 'passwordless MFA', but the question asks for a single method. Windows Hello for Business (Option D) is strictly for Windows devices and cannot be used on Android or iOS.

Community Comment Notes

Many learners initially struggled with this question, with some arguing for Voice Call or MFA. As Frank9020 noted, "alternative D: Hello for Business, is not available for Android or iOS devices," highlighting the key constraint. The consensus correctly identifies that only the Authenticator app works universally across the required platforms.

Exam Strategy

Focus on the specific capabilities and limitations of each authentication method. Remember that 'Windows Hello' implies Windows-only, while 'Authenticator App' is cross-platform. Always check if the solution meets ALL device requirements listed in the scenario.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Windows Hello for Business incorrect?

Windows Hello for Business is only supported on Windows devices and cannot authenticate Android or iOS users.

Is MFA considered passwordless?

Standard MFA often uses passwords plus another factor. Passwordless MFA typically refers to methods like FIDO2 or the Authenticator app push.

More MS-102 FAQ →

Community Votes

A
100%

100% of anonymous learners picked answer A. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.

Discussion 7 contributions

Compiled from public community threads and reader submissions, lightly edited for clarity. Handles and vote tallies are shown as recorded, and comments reflect the views of individual contributors.

From public community threads 7

  1. [Removed] 👍 9 Answered A
    The Microsoft Authenticator App
  2. Gim99 👍 3
    To implement a passwordless authentication solution that supports Windows, Android, and iOS devices and uses the same authentication method for all devices, the best option is: A. the Microsoft Authentication app
  3. Murad01 👍 3
    Wrong answer. A is the correct answer (Microsoft authentication app)
  4. belyo 👍 2 Answered A
    Microsoft authentication app for sure
  5. Frank9020 👍 1 Answered A
    It is really an impossible question to answer, alternative A: is dependent on mobile device as mobile phone or tablet alternative B: depends on phone to be able to get a phone call alternative C: MFA can be passwordless, but only in use with another method ex. Hello, MS authenticator or FIDO. alterternative D: Hello for Business, is not available for Android or iOS devices.
Show 2 more comments
  1. Tomtom11 👍 1
    Passwordless authentication allows you to replace authentication using a password with authentication requiring “something you have” and “something you know.” An example might be a biometric, such as your face or fingerprint, combined with a code generated by an authenticator device.
  2. APK1 👍 1 Answered B
    Correct Answer is B

Reader comments & corrections

No reader corrections yet — spotted an error or have a note? Share it below.

Log in to comment, report an error, or add a note about this question.

Which passwordless method works on Windows, Android, and iOS?

S-grade

How Do You Monitor Mailbox Activities in Defender for Cloud Apps?

S-grade

Which components configure a Defender for Cloud Apps log collector?

S-grade

How to Configure a Custom Phishing Link in Attack Simulation Training?

S-grade

Practice All MS-102 Questions

Access 111 questions with complete answers and detailed explanations.

View Full MS-102 Practice Test →

← Back to MS-102 Study Guide