Due to security requirements designed to enhance the security of Salem State computer accounts and the data provided and accessed through those accounts, SSU has enabled multi-factor authentication, also called MFA, two-factor authentication, 2FA, or two-step authentication.
What is Multi-factor Authentication?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security measure that requires users to provide more than just a password to log in to an account. This additional login information helps protect your account, as well as the data entered or accessed by it, from being accessed by unauthorized parties through the use of a “2nd factor” 6-digit code provided by one of the following:
- A text message
- An email
- A smartphone/tablet ‘Authenticator’ app such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator
When searching for applications for your device, make sure you download the app you searched for, and not an alternative that Google or Apple suggests.
Alternatively, you can get a “push” notification allowing you to simply select “yes, it’s me” or press the # key through:
- The Microsoft Authenticator app (this is the recommended authentication method and will greatly simplify your MFA experience)
- Telephone call
NOTE: All users will eventually be required to use Multifactor Authentication. You will see a registration “nag” screen until you register for the service. By registering, the nag screen will stop being displayed, and for users where MFA has been enabled, you will begin seeing the prompt for your 2nd-factor authentication code. It is beneficial for anyone who sees this registration screen to sign up as soon as possible. The process is outlined below.
Which Microsoft authentication (sign-in) methods can I use?
You can add one or all of the following methods to your Microsoft My Account Security Info page (see instructions below):
Mobile Phone
- Receive a verification code via text that you will enter to sign in.
- Receive a phone call from Microsoft and enter the pound sign.
Alternate Phone
- Use a second mobile phone to receive a text or a call.
- Use a landline to get a call from Microsoft and enter the pound sign.
Microsoft Authenticator App
With this free app, you can sign in to your account without using a password. For security, you'll use your mobile device and a fingerprint, face recognition, or PIN.
- It can be used with a mobile phone or a tablet (iOS or Android).
- It can be used with non-SSU accounts.
- ITS recommends and supports it.
- See the instructions for help getting started with the Microsoft Authenticator app:
Other Authenticator Apps
- Although we recommend and support the Microsoft Authenticator app, you can also use other authenticator apps.
How do I add, update, and view my sign-in (authentication) methods?
- Go to your Microsoft My Account page.
- Select Security info from the menu on the left, or select UPDATE INFO in the Security info tile.
On the security info page, you can:
- Change your default sign-in method.
- Add a new sign-in method.
- Change or delete an existing sign-in method.
Currently, your alternate email address is only used for password resets and cannot be used for multi-factor authentication.
When you are ready to set up multi-factor authentication, see the instructions here: How to Setup Multi-factor Authentication (MFA).
The following is a list of services and their current MFA requirement.
This is not a full list and may be edited. Services that currently do not require MFA may require it in the future:
- Adobe – Required
- Canvas – Not currently required
- EAB Navigate – Required
- Microsoft Office 365 and related services – Required
- Navigator (and other PeopleSoft services) – Not currently required
- PageUp – Not currently required
- Parking Permit - Not currently required
- SchoolDude – Required
- VPN – Required