Multi-factor authentication in Office 365
M State is in the process of adding multi-factor authentication to all college email accounts to help protect your online security.
This means you will not be able to get into your college email account without setting an authentication device – either your cellphone or a tablet. MFA is a huge step toward keeping your personal information safe.
What is it?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a method of authentication that requires the use of more than one verification method and adds a second layer of security to user sign-ins and transactions. It works by requiring you to login and then use one of these verification methods:
- A randomly generated pass code or use of an authenticator app
- A phone call and press of the # key needed to verify
For the best experience – make sure you have Office 365 Pro Plus installed on your computer.
How do I get it set up?
Visit https://www.minnstate.edu/mfa and follow the instructions to setup and activate Multi-Factor Authentication for yourself.
This 4 minute video will walk you through the process.
This Multi-Factor Authentication Setup (MFA) article will walk you through the process as well.
What if I don’t have my phone/device available?
Alternatively, when you are logging into Office 365, if you can’t receive the 6-digit code or use the authenticator app because you don’t have your device with you, just select “Sign in another way” and choose to have Microsoft call your office phone. Just answer the phone and press the # key to login!
How do I change my MFA settings?
You can always change your MFA settings at any time.
Visit https://www.minnstate.edu/mfa or https://aka.ms/MFASetup to change your MFA settings.
How often do I need to use MFA?
You will need to use MFA to verify your login any time you login on a new computer, in a different browser, or clear the history on the browser you use normally.
Please note:
Using your personal device for Multi-Factor Authentication is not tracked in any way and does not put your device at risk of being requested/taken by anyone. It is simply a tool being used to prove that it is you logging in and not someone else.
Want to learn more about MFA?
Here's a great article about MFA from the National Institute of Standards and Technology. If you have questions or concerns, you may submit a Computer Help Desk ticket here or call your Campus Help Center:
- Detroit Lakes Campus - 218.846.3672
- Fergus Falls Campus - 218.736.1655
- Moorhead Campus - 218.299.6600
- Wadena Campus - 218.631.7873
