Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Frequently Asked Questions

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security method requiring users to verify their identity through two or more factors. It's who you are (your netid), what you know (password), and what you have (device). It's used to enhance protection against unauthorized access, reducing the risk of cyber threats. This article is a landing page for enrollments, questions and troubleshooting steps for MFA.

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Duo Mobile App Registration

MFA Experience

Enrollment

Duo - Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Enrollment

NetID Center Instructions:

Navigate to NetID Center- University of Illinois System and log in.
If your account is already enrolled in MFA, you will need to authenticate with one of your existing devices. If you run into issues or do not have your device, please refer to Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Troubleshooting.
Verify that the recovery email listed under Recovery Settings is correct. This email may be used to provide bypass codes of you cannot access your MFA devices.
Click on 'Set up 2FA'.
If you are not on campus and connected via the campus network: You will be shown a screen with the heading “(!) Must be connected to the University network to register” – you will still be able to enroll, but you will need to confirm your identity by way of one of your recovery options:
1. Click on “Get registration code” button below the ‘Option 2’ heading.
2. Select one of the presented pieces of contact information, which should match the password recovery options confirmed in step 2.
3. You will receive a 6-digit “UI Verify Registration Code” there. Enter the numbers at the “Enter registration code” box on the next screen.
On the “Device Setup: Add a Device” screen, select the type of device you want to use for MFA:
1. Smartphone (recommended) for any device with a phone number
2. Tablet for devices that do not have a phone number but can install the Duo Mobile app.
3. Hardware token for MFA token devices purchased from the University WebStore; more detailed instructions here: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Hardware Tokens and Security Keys.
Follow the setup instructions for the selected device below.

Microsoft Authenticator:
The Microsoft Authenticator app is available for:

iOS and iPadOS (15.0 or later)
Android (8.0 and later)
Use the following link MFA Setup to install the app and ensure to select the device listed (initially it gives you the iOS, you can select Android if you have an Android device.).

Questions about Devices

Is a Smartphone Required for MFA?
No. A smartphone is recommended, but not required.

Supported MFA methods include:

Duo Mobile app
Tablet with Duo Mobile
Hardware token Security key
Microsoft Authenticator

Do I Need to Use My Personal Phone?

No. You may use another supported device or authentication method. However, most users prefer the Duo Mobile app because it provides the simplest sign-in experience. Instead of a smartphone, you may register with a basic cell phone for text, a tablet with the Duo mobile app installed, or a token (Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Yubikey, Purchase and Use).

What Happens If I Lose My MFA Device?

Review the MFA Troubleshooting article Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Obtaining a Bypass Code .Contact IT Service Desk if additional help is needed

Can I Register Multiple Devices?

Yes. Registering multiple MFA devices is strongly recommended in case your primary device becomes unavailable. University phone numbers cannot be used for MFA enrollment.