Tools

Serv-U MFA is not working and returns the error: “ERROR: The operation cannot be performed.” when attempting to log in

Serv-U MFA is not working and returns the error: “ERROR: The operation cannot be performed.” when attempting to log in.

First published date

9/12/2025 12:14 PM

Last published date

9/12/2025 3:35 PM

Overview

Users are unable to authenticate with MFA in Serv-U. The error appears immediately after entering the 6-digit code from Microsoft Authenticator, preventing successful login.

Product section

Serv-U Managed File Transfer & Serv-U FTP Server

Cause

The issue is caused by a time difference between the Serv-U server and the mobile device running Microsoft Authenticator. The mismatch prevents the MFA code from being validated.

Resolution

Correct the time zones of the server and the mobile device to be synced. After fixing the time difference, MFA login works as expected.

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