MFA MFA Instructions VPN Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I opt out of MFA?
A: No. MFA is mandatory starting with Office365 on January 3, 2023. More applications
will follow after this initial rollout.
Q: I work in the basement of the hospital, and have spotty or non-existent cellular
service there. What are my options for MFA?
A: You can still use the Microsoft Authenticator app through a wireless connection.
Q: I cannot carry a cellphone during work. What are my options?
A: You can set up a call-back number (such as your work phone) for your MFA, or you
can utilize the Yubikey option with the Yubico Authenticator application on your PC
(see the Yubikey section for more info on setting this up).
Q: I do not want to use my personal cell phone (or I don’t have one) for MFA. What
are my options?
A: You can set up a call-back number (such as your work phone or your home phone)
for your MFA, or you can utilize the Yubikey option with the Yubico Authenticator
application on your PC (see the Yubikey section for more info on setting this up).
Q: If I am using a Yubikey, do I need to plug it into my device?
A: In addition to plugging the key into your phone/workstation, you also have the
option instead of using the NFC functionality on those keys/phones that support it.
Any of the supported devices listed that have “NFC” in its name can be utilized for
this.
Q: How do I set up Multifactor Authentication?
A: Visit MFA Setup and follow the instructions to configure your MFA sign-in methods. The Authenticator app will use these options to reach you when signing in to your
UTAD-accessed accounts.
Q: What authentication options can I set up through MFA?
A: Microsoft Authenticator App, cell phone, office phone call, YubiKey purchase.
Q: Will I have to use MFA to sign in to Blackboard?
A: These changes will not effect Blackboard at this time.
Q: Why do I get prompted sometimes, but not all of the time?
A: You will be prompted at periodic intervals, and shorter intervals may be instituted
based on factors such as using a new device, logging in from a different network,
or if Microsoft detects a risky sign in.
Q: If I accidentally exit out of a page, will I have to go through the MFA process
to get back in or will it remember me for a short time?
A: Users will be remembered for a short period of time. Users will not have to MFA to
get back in if it is within a reasonable amount of time.
Q: Will this eventually replace the MFA for VPN and direct deposit?
A: Yes, this will eventually replace the current processes for VPN and direct deposit?
Q: Can I use email for my MFA method?
A: No. Even though this is an option as a sign-in method, it is not available for
MFA.
Q: Can my office phone be used for MFA when I am not at my desk?
A: Yes, you can install the Jabber app from Software Center, which will extend your
office phone to your UT device.
Q: Can I use Google Voice as my MFA method for a callback number or SMS?
A: It is recommended that you do not use Google Voice for MFA. Many services (including
Microsoft MFA) have deprecated its use due to security concerns and it likely will
not work at all. For the highest level of security, it is recommendnded that you
use the Micorosoft Authenticator app. If you must use a phone number, your cell or
office phone is recommended.
Q: I do not want to purchase a Yubikey with my own money. What should I do?
A: You should work with your department to buy one for you to utilize. IT does not
have a supply of these keys.
Q: If I purchase my Yubikey from the Yubico store, can I tell them that we are sales-tax
exempt?
A: Yes. At checkout from the Yubico store, there is a box that you can check to signify
that you are tax exempt. The site will then ask you to provide your tax-exempt certificate,
which can be found here: https://www.utoledo.edu/offices/controller/accounts_payable/pdfs/tax-exempt-blanket-certificate-signed.pdf.
Q: Is there an educational discount if I purchase through the Yubico store?
A: Yes, there is a 20% discount for Yubikeys purchased through the Yubico store. Just
fill out the form at https://www.yubico.com/education-offer, and you will be emailed a code that you can use at checkout from the store. Be
sure to use your Utoledo email as your email address.