What is Multi-Factor Authentication?
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a more secure way to log in to online accounts. It requires you to verify your identity after entering your username and password, typically by verifying a code that is sent via email or text message. In this case, the first factor is your password, and the second factor is the code you must verify. You may already be familiar with multi-factor authentication, as many companies use it as part of their online login process. NKU uses Duo for multi-factor authentication.
Multi-Factor Authentication Overview
In this Article
Duo is available to all NKU faculty and staff. Student employees are able to set up an account upon supervisor request. Users first need enroll in Duo, then add a device (such as a phone or tablet) and download the Duo app.
After entering your username and password when logging in to NKU services like myNKU, Canvas, and Webmail, Duo can send a push notification to your device. Just tap "Approve" in the app to complete your login. Duo can also send a text, or you can use a passcode. However, it is recommended that push notifications are used for a quick and easy login process.
You will also receive a notification if someone has gained access to your credentials and is attempting to log in to your account. You can then tap "Deny" which will prevent them from logging in. This will alert you to immediately change your password.
Enrolling in DUO will greatly enhance the security of your NKU digital identity. With the added security, you are required to change your password only once every 365 days.
If you are using an Mac computer, you are currently still be required to reset your password every 90 days. IT is working a solution, which will be implemented within the next year. If you have additional questions, please contact the IT Helpdesk.
- Visit duo.nku.edu. Log in with your NKU username and password, then click the "Enroll in Duo" button.
- Enter the last 8 digits of your ISO, which can be found on your NKU All Card.
- On the next page, click "Continue" to confirm you want to enroll.
- You are now enrolled in Duo, but you're not ready to use it just yet! Your next step is to add a device. Click the button at the bottom, which will take you to the "Device Management" page.
Note: The following steps use a phone as the device type to add to a Duo user account.
- Visit duo.nku.edu. Log in with your NKU username and password, then click the "Manage Devices" button. You may need to enter the last 8 digits of your ISO before continuing. On the "Device Management" page, click the "This is my first device..." button.
- The next steps are similar to an installation wizard. Click "Start Setup" to begin.
- Specify which type of device you will use. Phones are recommended, as users will typically have their phone with them.
- Enter your phone number.
- Specify the type of phone you are using (iPhone is used in this guide).
- On your phone, download the Duo app from the App Store. Be sure not to confuse it with "Google Duo", as that may be the first result. Once you have the Duo app installed on your phone, click "I have Duo Mobile Installed".
- Open the Duo app on your phone and follow the steps to set up your account. You will be prompted to select "I have a QR code". Use your phone to scan the QR code on your computer screen.
- On the "My Settings and Devices" page, ensure "Automatically send this device a Duo Push" is selected.
- You will then be set up with Duo! Click the "Dismiss" button.
