Multi-Factor Authentication for Students

Multi-factor authentication, also known as MFA, is an additional layer of security that requires you to verify that you are who you say you are.  

Why are we doing this?     

• 99.9% of hacked email accounts did not use MFA.     
• 60% of users reuse passwords.   

How Will MFA Authentication Work?

• When you login to Microsoft Office 365 (WebMail, OneDrive, SharePoint, Teams, etc.), you will be prompted to enter additional security verification. The different verification methods are as follows:
• Install the Microsoft Authenticator app from Apple App Store or Google Play on your smartphone (recommended).  
• Receive a code texted to your cell phone each time you login.
• Receive a code called to your cell phone, personal phone, or an alternative phone.

Setting Up MFA for the First Time

• As a new user, you will be asked to enroll in MFA the first time you log into your email. We recommend that you do this process on a computer rather than a mobile device.
  
  
• Step 1: Enter your Email Address and Password to Login to email at mail.office365.com. You will receive a prompt: “More information required”.
  
  
• Step 2: Select an authentication method in the first drop down box under Step 1 on the MFA setup page. Currently you can use Mobile app or phone authentication.
  
  
• Mobile app (Recommended Method): (Watch How-To Video)
  
  
• On your computer, select Mobile app in the drop-down box. Select “Receive notifications for verification”. Then click “Set up” and leave this page open.
  
  
• From the “Configure mobile app” screen, follow the instructions to install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone, then open it.
  
  
• On your phone, follow the steps in the wizard until your smartphone displays an Accounts screen. Click the + (plus) sign or the “Add Account” button to add your email account, then select “Work or school account”.
  
  
• Using your phone, scan the QR code from your computer. Once the account is added, you will see a screen on your phone with your email address and a blue six-digit code.
  
  
• Return to your computer, and click “Next”, then “Next” again, and return to your phone.
  
  
• On your phone, click “Approve” to approve the sign in.
  
  
• On your computer, choose your country in the drop-down box and type in a backup phone number in the text box to the right of the drop-down box. Click the Done Button.
  
  
• Phone Authentication: Select Authentication phone in the first drop-down box. Then click the "Select your country or region" drop-down box and click on your country. In the text box to the right of the country, enter your phone number. Finally select if you want a phone call or a text message to authenticate your account.
  
  
• Conclusion: Congratulations! Your account is now secured with MFA.
  
  
• When you log into an MFA protected service at SSU for the first time or it has been seven days since you last authorized that device, you will be prompted with the "Approve sign-in?" screen like you received during the test authentication. If you are logging into an SSU system when you receive the notification, click Approve. If you are not logging in, click Deny and contact the helpdesk to report the date and time of the unauthorized login attempt.

Remember, if you need assistance or have questions, you may contact Help Desk by phone at 912-358-4357  or via email at: ServiceDesk@savannahstate.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the preferred options for MFA?
  
• We recommend choosing at least two options that are not both tied to your smartphone. Due to its security, we recommend the Microsoft Authenticator app as one of these options. The other option could be something that doesn’t use your smartphone. For example, you could set up the Microsoft Authenticator app and your personal phone number.
  
  
• I live in an area with poor cellular signal.  What can I do?
  
• The Microsoft Authenticator app does not require an Internet or cellular connection in order to use it. We recommend that option.  You could also use your home phone number as your alternative phone.  
  
  
• What if I set up MFA on my smartphone and I lose it or forget it?
  
• Make sure you have set up alternative phone numbers that could be used such as your personal phone.  If you have no other ways of authenticating, you can contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance at 912.358.4357.
  
  
• Will I Be Required to Use MFA With Each Sign-in? 
  
• Once you have successfully signed-in, you will not be required to use MFA for every sign-in attempt from the same device.