Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is mutli-factor authentication (MFA)?

Multi-factor Authentication is used to confirm your identity before allowing access to a service. It increases security by requiring you to use both something you know (e.g., your username and password) and something you have (e.g., a work phone or mobile device) to make it more difficult for an unauthorized person to authenticate as you (i.e. they can’t get access just by knowing your password).

How does it work?

When attempting to access your email or other Office365 resources from off the campus network, it will require you to enter a verification code after logging in. That code is provided via a text message or phone call, depending on settings you configure in your account. The options we recommend are:

• Phone Call - Calls you at a pre-defined phone number and communicates the code
• Text Message - Sends a text message to a pre-defined phone number with the code
• Mobile App - Uses the Microsoft Authenticator App (Windows Phone, Android, and iOS only) to generate a code or prompt you to confirm verification.

Will this be required in my in my office?

No, you will still log into your office machine as you have and you will still get your email in Outlook on your office machine without being prompted by MFA.

What happens if I do nothing?

If you do nothing, you will only be able to get to email or Office365 resources from Eastern campus computers like the one in your office. If that's acceptable, you won't be affected by MFA. However, if you expect to access email or Office365 from a cell phone, tablet, or personally owned computer then you need to register and set up your MFA options.  

How do I set up MFA?

Go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup. Once MFA is activated for your account and a successful MFA authentication process occurs on your device, you will be prompted for MFA every 30 days on your off-campus devices. For complete instructions on setting up go to Article 514: First-Time MFA Setup

What if I want to edit the settings after I've set them up?

Complete instructions for editing them after having set them up the first time can be found in Article 515: Configuring or Editing MFA settings

Is there anything else I have to know?

We highly suggest you setup your account to have an alternate phone, even if you want to use the mobile app or text message methods. This allows you to configure a backup phone number. 

At any time you can change your MFA settings if you decide later that you'd rather authenticate using one of the other methods.