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MFA Guide

Updated
~ minute read
              MSAuthenticatorlogo.png

MFA provides additional security for your Mohawk College accounts by requiring two elements to fully authenticate. You'll be asked to authenticate on your mobile phone through the Microsoft Authenticator app in addition to logging in to college applications online as an extra layer of security.

 

What do I need to use MFA?

NOTE: MFA is only required when accessing Mohawk applications off-campus. When you are on campus connected to Mohawk Wi-Fi, you will not need to use MFA.

To register for MFA, you will need:

  1. Your MohawkID and password (for example: 000101060@mohawkcollege.ca)
  2. A mobile device (iOS or Android Phone/Tablet)
  3. Computer with web browser
  4. An internet connection

The college recommends the Microsoft Authenticator app to receive notifications on your smartphone or tablet to verify your identity when prompted for multi-factor authentication. 

If you prefer to use another method of authentication, read Other Authentication Methods.

How do I set up MFA?

Follow the steps listed below to set up the authenticator app and register for MFA. 

Step 1: Setup the Authenticator App (Phone)

On Your Phone:

  1. Visit the Apple app store or Google play store on your device and install the Microsoft Authenticator app.
  2. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app. 
    • Within the app, choose + Add account
      MFAapp1.png
    • Choose 'Work or school account'
      MFAapp2.png
  3. Select Scan a QR code.
    MFAapp3.png
  4. Continue to Step 2 - MFA registration, for the QR code to scan.
Step 2: Register for MFA (Computer)

These steps show how to register using a computer. If you don't have access to a computer, you can still follow these steps in a browser tab on your mobile device.

On Your Computer:

  1. Open a browser and visit Microsoft Sign-Ins
  2. Sign in with your MohawkID ex: 000101060@mohawkcollege.ca
    MFAlogin.png
    3.  
  3. Under Security Info: 
    • Select + Add sign-in method
      MFAAddMethod.png
    • Choose a method > Authenticator app and Add
      MFA-AddMethod2.png
    4.  
  4. Select Next when prompted to Install Microsoft Authenticator App
    MFA-Next3.png
    5.  
  5. Select Next to continue with set up and reveal your QR code.
    MFA-SetupAccount4.png
Step 3:  Scanning the QR Code and Finish Setting up the MFA (Phone & Computer)

On Your Phone:

  • In the Microsoft Authenticator App, scan the QR code visible on your computer. You will need to allow your phone to take photos while using the app to scan the QR code.
    MFA-ScanQRCode5.png

On Your Computer:

  • After scanning the QR Code chose Next and a notification will be sent to the Authenticator app on your phone to test the account.
    MFAsendnotification.png

On Your Phone:

  • Approve the notification in the Authenticator app.
    iPhone-Approve.png

You are now set up for Multi-Factor Authentication.

Authenticating with MFA

If you are logging in to an application that uses MFA, a window will appear for you to approve the sign-in request. A notification will be sent to your phone prompting you to open the Microsoft Authenticator app to approve the request.

NOTE: MFA is only required when accessing your Mohawk account off-campus.

Other Authentication Methods

Instructions can be found on the Microsoft website to assist users through the setup processes. For information on other MFA verification methods read the following:

If you can't get past the login screen in the MFA registration process (step 2), you need to contact the IT Service Desk. 

 Resources