Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

With cybersecurity threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, Laurier is joining institutions around the world in adopting multi-factor authentication (MFA) as a mandatory requirement on all Laurier accounts to help keep the digital assets, information, and user identities of our community safe.

It is an easy way to protect your Microsoft 365 email and single sign-on (SSO) account. Sometimes known as two-step verification, MFA adds an extra layer of protection to help prevent hacking, even if they have your password.

There continues to be several heightened cyber security incidents across Higher Education. MFA is an IT Security best practice and has been approved as a mandatory requirement for account access.

New Staff and Faculty

Choose your desired MFA method and learn how to set it up for the first time.

Mobile Options

• Microsoft Authenticator App: Enter a one-time six-digit code generated in the app. (Recommended for most users for the best experience.)*
• Push Notifications: Select 'Approve' when prompted on your mobile device. (Recommended for most users for the best experience.)*
• SMS Text Messages: Enter a one-time six-digit code you receive via text message. (The Authenticator app is not required for this method.)

*If you already use Microsoft Authenticator for another institution, you can add your Laurier account.

Device Alternatives

• Hardware Token: Enter a one-time six-digit code generated on small fob. You are provided the initial hardware token free of charge.
• Security Key: Plug a USB device into your computer that will prompt for a security pin and fingerprint touch censor. You will need to purchase the device, which is not covered by Laurier.

Current Staff and Faculty

Update your authentication method with our new options! We are pleased to offer more methods for a more user-friendly experience.

Mobile Options

• Microsoft Authenticator App: Enter a one-time six-digit code generated in the app. (Recommended for most users for the best experience.)*
• Push Notifications (new): Select 'Approve' when prompted on your mobile device.(Recommended for most users for the best experience.)*
• SMS Text Messages (new): Enter a one-time six-digit code you receive via text message. (The Authenticator app is not required for this method.)

*If you already use Microsoft Authenticator for another institution, you can add your Laurier account.

Device Alternatives

• Hardware Token: Enter a one-time six-digit code generated on small fob. You are provided the initial hardware token free of charge.
• Security Key (new): Plug a USB device into your computer that will prompt for a security pin and fingerprint touch censor. You will need to purchase the device, which is not covered by Laurier.

Alumni and Retirees

Choose your desired MFA method and follow the instructions for set-up.

Mobile Options

• Microsoft Authenticator App: Enter a one-time six-digit code generated in the app.*
• Push Notifications: Select 'Approve' when prompted on your mobile device. (Recommended for most users for the best experience.)*
• SMS Text Messages: Enter a one-time six-digit code you receive via text message. (The Authenticator app is not required for this method.)

*If you already use Microsoft Authenticator for another institution, you can add your Laurier account.

Device Alternatives

• Hardware Token: Enter a one-time six-digit code generated on small fob. You are provided the initial hardware token free of charge.
• Security Key: Plug a USB device into your computer that will prompt for a security pin and fingerprint touch censor. You will need to purchase the device, which is not covered by Laurier.

Accessibility

Laurier strives to make its digital resources and services accessible to all users, including those with disabilities who may also be using assistive technology. ICT and the Accessible Learning Centre (ALC) have reviewed the MFA options in collaboration to assess the accessibility options. Please do not hesitate to reach out with suggestions for improvement.

If you have any questions about MFA and accessibility, please contact the ICT Service Desk.

Emergency Login Codes

Emergency login codes can be used when you are in an emergency and you forget, lose or damage your mobile device or security key, or are experiencing an issue with your MFA. They temporarily suspend your MFA for 24-hours.

Create and manage your eight-digit emergency login codes:

1. Go to the Laurier MFA Management app.
2. Click the "Get Emergency Login Codes" button and sign in using your Laurier credentials.
   • To view current emergency login codes, click "Get Emergency Login Codes."
   • To generate new emergency login codes, click "Generate New Emergency Login Codes."
   • To print the latest emergency login codes, click the "Print" button.
   • To send emergency login codes to your personal email, click the "Send Email" button.