Set up multi-factor authentication on your University Microsoft account

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your University Microsoft account. It's sometimes also called two-step verification or two-factor authentication (2FA). ​You'll need to enter an additional form of identification to sign in – for example, a code sent to your mobile phone.

MFA increases security for access to Exchange Online email accounts, OneDrive and other Microsoft applications.

You'll need to set up your second factors for authentication when MFA is activated on your account. After that, you'll need to use one of these factors occasionally to confirm your identity when accessing your account.

What you need to do

You need to set up your second factors for authentication. 

To ensure you don’t lose access to your Microsoft account, you should set up at least two authentication methods. We recommend using the Microsoft Authenticator app on mobile devices, but there are several options.
 

Authentication methods

Choose from:

1. Notifications or codes from the Microsoft Authenticator mobile and desktop app – this is our recommended option
2. Codes sent in text messages to a mobile phone
3. Calls to a landline or mobile phone
4. Codes from a hardware token

If you're unable to use any of the methods, please contact the UIS Service Desk.
 

When you'll need to use a second factor

Once set up, you’ll need to use a second factor when you: 

• log in using a new device

• change your password

• add your University email account to a new email application

Logging in via the University's VPN may also trigger a request for an authentication code because it will be seen as a different location.

Update your authentication settings on your email apps

You may need to update the settings on email apps you use to access your University email account after MFA is activated on your University Microsoft account.
 

Manage your authentication methods

You can change, remove and update authentication methods in your University Microsoft account.

Find out how to manage your multi-factor authentication methods.
 

Get help

If you experience any difficulties logging in or lose your second factor, please contact the UIS Service Desk.