Overview
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is an authentication method that requires more than one piece of identifying evidence. Typically, this takes the form of:
Something you know (such as a password), plus
Something you have (such as a smartphone with an authenticator app)
This is contrasted with traditional single-factor authentication, which just requires you to provide a username and password.
Since October 2018, browser-based access to Microsoft 365 requires MFA. In October 2022, this was extended to all of Microsoft 365 regardless of access method. This means that any app you use with Microsoft 365 must support MFA, be it a browser, smartphone/tablet app, or app on your computer.
Pursuant to the UT Austin Information Security Office's Information Resources Use and Security Policy section 4.6, multi-factor authentication (MFA) is required "For all UTEID-authenticated services provided to active faculty, staff or students regardless of their location (on or off campus)".
Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
As of this writing, The University of Texas at Austin uses Duo for most MFA scenarios, including Microsoft 365. In order to make use of multi-factor authentication, you must enroll your device.
To register a device using the Duo registration portal, go to https://mfa.login.utexas.edu/.
Detailed instructions for how to enroll your device can be found on the Duo web site.
Once your device is enrolled, when you attempt to access a secure system which requires multi-factor authentication, a separate message will be sent to your device which must be confirmed.
The University strongly recommends that you enroll more than one device in this service. This strategy will enable you to use the backup device to re-enroll your primary device if it should become reset to factory conditions, lost, or stolen.
Troubleshooting
For troubleshooting issues specific to multi-factor authentication (MFA), please visit Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) : FAQ or contact the UT Service Desk.
