Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Overview

Multi-factor authentication is used when students and employees are logging into campus systems including Email, Canvas, and MyAthens resources. 

When logging into MyAthens Portal or  Email (Microsoft) account for the first time, you will be prompted to set up multi-factor authentication. 

 

Resolution

This process requires a web browser and a smart phone on separate devices, and you will switch between the two devices during set up.

Make sure you have an active MyAthens account and you know your password.

Students 

Employees

 

Students

Download the Microsoft Authenticator application on your smart phone.

  1. In a web browser on a computer, navigate to outlook.office.com 
  2. Login using your Athens State University email address and MyAthens password
  3. Follow the prompts on your computer to setup and keep your account secure
  4. Once the QR code is displayed on your computer, stay on this page and switch to your smart phone
  5. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smart phone
  6. Choose to add an account by clicking the + icon located at the top right corner of the Microsoft Authenticator application
  7. Select Work or School account
  8. Choose the Scan QR code option to scan the QR code displayed on your computer
  9. On your computer, click Next to finish the setup

After finishing the setup, you will see a verification code on your computer screen. Check your smart phone notifications to enter the verification code for your login activity.

 

Employees

Download DUO Mobile on your smart phone.

  1. In a web browser on a computer, navigate to outlook.office.com 
  2. Login using your Athens State University email address and MyAthens password
  3. Choose Next on the welcome message to keep your account secure
  4. You may be prompted to enter a phone number 
  5. Choose Next again after reading the informational prompts to display the QR Code
  6. Open the DUO mobile app on your phone, choose to set up an account using QR code option
  7. Scan the QR code displayed on your computer to activate DUO on your phone
  8. You may be prompted to enter an account name such as Athens 


After setting up DUO, use your computer to login to your email. The login activity should prompt an authentication verification by sending a push notification to your phone to approve or reject this login.

 

Troubleshooting

Make sure your phone is connected to the internet and can receive push notifications.

All future login activity for MyAthens Portal, Email, Canvas and other SSO resources will require Multifactor Authentication.

Contact the Help Desk via phone if:

  • You no longer have access to the smart phone used for previous authentication
  • If the device you're trying to delete is the only verification method you have set up

 

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