To use MFA you need to set up the method(s) you would like to use to confirm it is you when signing in to your account. These are ways that you can be contacted to confirm it is you signing in to your account.
This setup can be done at any time prior to needing to use MFA and only needs to be done once. Ideally do the set up before MFA is enabled on your account.
Follow our Setting Up MFA instructions for a step-by-step guide.
What methods are available?
There are a number of different methods you can use and you can set up more than one if you choose to, perhaps as a backup.
Methods available include:
Microsoft Authenticator app [Link to Setting up Authenticator FAQ] – our recommendation
You just tap an Approve button to approve your sign in
Can be used like other authenticator apps that require you to enter a code displayed to approve your sign in, for example if your phone does not have a mobile data signal
This is currently the most secure option
Other authenticator apps e.g. Google Authenticator
You will need to open the app then enter the code displayed to approve your sign in
How do I use it?
From the point that MFA is enabled on your account, when signing in to protected University services you will also need to use one of the MFA methods you have set up.
How do I change my default method?
If you have followed our recommendation, you should have the Microsoft Authenticator app as your default method (and possibly only method). You can check this and change it if needed by following the instructions below.
1. If you don’t still have it open, go to the MFA set up page: https://aka.ms/mfasetup
2. Select Change to the right of Default Sign in method
3. You will be presented with a drop-down list of what options you have available based on what you have set up. Simply select the method you want to have as the default.
You can also review our other FAQs:
What is Multifactor authentication (MFA) and when will I need to use it?
How do I setup the Microsoft Authenticator MFA method?
My phone is not compatible with the authenticator applications shown. What do I do?
How do I get help setting up and using MFA?
What happens if my MFA methods aren’t set up when MFA is enforced?
I’m a guest, how do I see / change what MFA methods I have set up?