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Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is how we keep our computer accounts secure. 

Multi-Factor Authentication is the second step to verify your identity when you sign into our accounts. It prevents anyone, besides you, from gaining access to your account, even if your password is stolen.

Using a strong password in conjunction with Multi-Factor Authentication prevents malicious access to your account and personal information.

The use of Multi-Factor Authentication falls under the terms of the use of computer facilities statute.

If you have gotten a new phone or are struggling to get the Multi-Factor Authentication working please contact us as we can assist with these issues.

Setting Up Microsoft Authenticator

MFA setup guide - Watch video

  1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator App on your smartphone/tablet via Apple App store or Google Play store. Ensure that you enable push notifications for the Microsoft Authenticator App.
  2. Open a MFA enabled application (e.g. Office 365).
  3. Begin the log in process (enter your username and password). You will be prompted with a ‘More Information Required’ screen. Select ‘Next’.
  4. This screen will provide you with the link and application to download on your smartphone device. Select ‘Next’.
  5. This screen will provide you with the steps to open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone/tablet. Select ‘Next’ and leave the browser window open while you set up the Microsoft Authenticator app on your device.
  6. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone/tablet. Select the plus sign to add your account. Choose ‘Work or school account’.
  7. Select ‘Scan QR code’. Scan the QR code on your computer.
  8. Once the account has been added return to your computer. Select 'Next'.
  9. This will prompt a test it out screen. You will have a two digit number on your screen. Enter the number on your smartphone/tablet device. Select 'Yes'.
  10. Back on your computer screen you should now have a successful configuration. Select ‘Next’. A success page will be displayed. Select ‘Done’.

After setting up MFA

  • Set up an additional device as a secondary authentication device in case your primary device is unavailable. Your other device could be another smartphone or tablet. You can add a new device by navigating to the MFA setup.
  • When replacing your smartphone or tablet if possible make sure you still have access to your old device as you may need to accept an MFA challenge while configuring your new device.

FAQ

If you have another device, we strongly encourage you to set it up as your backup authentication method in case your primary authentication method is not available to you.

Having a backup device will allow you to use MFA on another phone or tablet and will ensure you are able to access your applications and systems.

You can add an additional device by navigating to the MFA Setup.

  1. La Trobe University uses Multi-Factor Authentication because cyber security is a real threat facing all organisations worldwide.
  2. It is important to La Trobe University that we have secure verification processes in place to protect all our La Trobe University users’ identities and intellectual property.

When logging into selected La Trobe systems and applications, you will be prompted to verify your identity via the Microsoft Authenticator Application installed on your smartphone.

This verification process on your smartphone is in addition to your username and password on your device that you use to access La Trobe applications.

You will be asked to verify who you are when you open a Microsoft application for the first time or use a device you have not used before.

The Microsoft Authentication application will not have any access to any personal information (such as bank details, passwords, photos, messages, calls or browsing history) on your smartphone.

Contact us for assistance.

If you have gotten a new phone and the previous one is still working as an Authenticator, you can set up the new one by navigating to the MFA Setup directly.

Then, you can remove your previous device as an Authenticator from your MFA device list.

If you have lost/broken/reset your phone or your authenticator is otherwise not available, please contact Student IT Support for assistance with resetting your MFA for your student account.

It depends on your access circumstance. Change of location, laptop, or PC may trigger an MFA challenge.

If you are accessing from the same location and device, then you may not be asked every time.

Yes, MFA will work regardless. There is no action required from you.

Yes. To change your default authentication device/method:

  1. Login to Microsoft My Account. You will need to do this on a computer, not a phone.
  2. Click Update Info under the Security Info section of the page.
  3. Click Change next to Default Sign-in method and follow the prompts to change your authentication method.

You can still use the Authenticator app when you are not connected to the internet or outside of Australia. Open the Authenticator app and select 'La Trobe University' to find a 6-digit code. Use this code instead to verify your identity.