Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) helps safeguard access to data and applications while maintaining simplicity for users. It provides additional security by requiring a second form of authentication and delivers strong authentication via a range of easy to use authentication methods.
How do I set up MFA?
Effective February 27, 2023: Microsoft Office 365 will have enhanced security through the addition of “number matching” to the multi-factor authentication process for those using the Microsoft Authenticator application. This change will not impact those using a different authentication method to verify their identity, such as entering a code received by text message or phone call. View the “Multi-Factor Authentication instructions” below to configure your device with the various MFA options.
How do I modify or setup MFA on my Office 365 account?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my Authentication options?
You will be able to choose a primary authentication method when you register, which you can change or update at any time. Current options are outlined below:
- Mobile Notification (Microsoft Authenticator Required): A push notification is sent to the authenticator app on your smartphone asking you to Authenticate your log in. If you do not have a smartphone or tablet, there is an Auth App which will work on Windows 10 and 11, the app is called WinOTP authenticator and is available in the Microsoft store on windows.
- Verification Code (Microsoft Authenticator Required): The Mobile Microsoft Authenticator app will generate a verification code that updates every 30 seconds. You will be asked to enter the most current verification code in the sign-in screen.
- Text Messages: A text message with a 6-digit code is sent to your mobile device that you will input to complete the authentication process.
- Phone Calls: A call is placed to your mobile phone asking you to verify you are signing in. Press the # key to complete the authentication process.
How do I change or update my authentication method?
You can make changes to your authentication settings by visiting https://aka.ms/mfasetup and choose option 1.
Can I use my personal device to setup MFA?
Yes, IT encourages faculty and staff to use their personal device for MFA.
How often do I have to re-authenticate?
If you continue to use the same computer every day, you may only have to re-authenticate when you change your password. If you use public computers, like the computers in our computer labs, you may need to re-authenticate every time you sign into an app like outlook.com through a browser.
What applications/systems are currently protected with MFA?
Microsoft Office 365 applications: Excel, Forms, Outlook, OneDrive, Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams & Word.
What if I forget my mobile device at home?
If you forget your mobile device at home, you can use your backup authentication method.
How do I know if my mobile phone will support MFA for email?
Apple phones model 6 and above will support Microsoft Authenticator and the newest version of Outlook to support MFA. Android version 8.0 and above also work with Microsoft Authenticator and a new version of Outlook. To use the native android mail or Gmail app, use the format of starid@minnstate.edu (faculty/staff) or starid@go.minnstate.edu (students) for the user name (email account) during setup. Utilizing your email address will fail the setup process.
If more assistance is needed
Incident Request: If you still need help with something not working as it should or have questions, please contact the IT Help Desk or create a ticket using the "Incident Request" button on this page, or if there isn't one included then you can initiate it from the home page.
Service Request: A formal request from a user for something to be provided, information, advice, a standard change or access to an IT service, navigate to the Service Catalog to find the service you specifically would like to request.