I'm setting up a PC for a new user and I'm trying to figure out the best way to install Office 365, especially since it requires Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Right now, we're doing everything manually—and to be honest, it feels a bit outdated. I've looked into some automation options for software installations but I'm not sure where to start since there are so many approaches. Any tips or experiences you could share?
5 Answers
HR handles the whole process during onboarding. They're familiar with setting it up, and IT steps in only if something goes awry with Microsoft products.
We use Intune for deploying Office 365, which simplifies things a lot. If that's not an option for you, you could manually install it using the Office Deployment Tool. Make sure the user goes to www.aka.ms/mfasetup to configure MFA first, and then they should be able to log into any Office app and activate the suite.
Using a temporary password generated by Entra can also work for initial setups; just make sure the user knows how to change it.
We manage the process through Autopilot, which sends instructions to new users on setting up MFA and logging in. Our vendor helps in adding machines to Autopilot or Apple Business Manager. This method has kept IT involvement minimal—super efficient!
We usually let the user handle the setup themselves since they're the ones with the phone and authenticator. If they run into issues, we send an intern to help them out with instructions or if Microsoft throws any errors due to old accounts being linked.
Yep, that’s been my experience too. It’s tough when the setup isn't smooth.