Introduction
As a college student, you often access various online platforms and services provided by the college, such as email, Google Classroom, and cloud storage. To enhance the security of these systems and protect your personal and academic information, our college requires the use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This guide will explain what MFA is, why it is important, and how you can set it up.
What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security process that requires two or more verification methods to prove your identity when logging into an account.
Before you start
- MFA will only be required when accessing college systems outside of the college network, for example at home.
- You will need an Android or iPhone device to download an app OR a telephone number you have access to when trying to sign in.
- If you do not have access to any of the above, please email [email protected] and alternative access can be arranged.
Why is MFA Important?
MFA adds an extra layer of security beyond just a username and password. Even if someone steals your password, they will need the second factor to access your account, keeping your data safe.
How to setup – Authenticator App
The below guide will describe how to setup MFA via the Authenticator App. This is the most secure method that the college recommends however if you want to use authentication by a telephone number and text message, skip to the “How to setup – Telephone Number” section below.
- Type in the following URL in any modern internet browser –
“https://aka.ms/mfa”, you will be presented with the below screen, press “Next”
2. On the screen show below, you will be prompted to download the “Microsoft Authenticator” app. On your mobile device, download the app from your App Store.
3. Then on the mobile app, press the “+” button on the top right hand side of the screen and then choose “Add a work or school account”, then choose “Scan QR Code”
4. Back on your other device, press next and scan the QR code that displays on the screen with your mobile device, then press “Next”.
5. You will now be prompted to enter a number on your mobile device, matching the one on-screen, type in the number and press “Yes”.
6. You are now registered for MFA.
How to setup – Telephone
- Type in the following URL in any modern internet browser –
“https://aka.ms/mfa”, you will be presented with the below screen, press “Next”
2. On the next screen, choose “I want to set up a different method”, then choose “Phone”
3. Then choose the country code and type in your mobile number. Then choose either “Receive a code” or “Call me”. Receive a code will send you an SMS text message when you want to sign in, Call me will ring your number and audibly read out a code. Press “Next”
4. Enter the 6-digit code you just received via SMS OR Phone call, press “Next”. You are now registered for MFA.
If you have any issues during this setup process, please email [email protected] and a member of staff will assist.
