MFA Main Article: Set up O365 Multi-factor Authentication

General Information

What is Multi-Factor Authentication for O365?

  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), also called 2-Factor Authentication (2FA), is a form of authentication which provides an added layer of protection, beyond just your password. This added authentication verification helps verify that a person logging in to an account is authorized to access that account.
  • Once you have enrolled in O365 MFA, after entry of your MinnState credentials to log in to O365 applications. You will receive a sign in approval request through the Microsoft Authenticator app to verify your identity.
  • The O365 multi-factor authentication is a service provided through the Minnesota State Microsoft O365 tenant. This solution helps protect not only your account, but all data and applications connected to the Minnesota State O365 tenant.   

Does Multi-Factor Authentication store my personal phone data?

  • No. None of your personal data is stored from any phone device you select for MFA set up and enrollment or by installing and using the Microsoft Authenticator app. MFA is not designed for data storage, it’s design and purpose is as an authentication utility. The Microsoft Authenticator app verifies authentication within the sign-in process in order to access Minnesota State O365 provided services.

How do I set up MFA added protection?

  • Follow the instructions included below.

Step 1) Review O365 MFA Verification Options:

  • Microsoft Authenticator App (Required)
  • Keep in mind you will need to have immediate access to the phone you will select for the verification option whenever you log into O365 applications.
  • Microsoft Authenticator is the required MFA method for Minnesota State Microsoft 365 accounts.

 

Verification Options:

  • Microsoft Authenticator Mobile App (iPhone, Android smartphone):
  • This option with use of approval notification for verification is required.
  • TIP: Watch this short video: Set up multi-factor authentication with a mobile device.
    • Contact Method:
      • Receive notification for verification: Receive approval notification for verification sent to your smartphone.
        • Recommended smartphone choice, offering convenient one tap approval verification from your smartphone.

Step 2) Complete MFA Setup Instructions:

Tip: Before you begin set up it will be helpful to take a moment to review the instructions, provided below, for the option you would like.

What you will need before you begin MFA set up:

  1. Immediate access to the Phone Device you will select for the verification option
  2. A Computer with Internet connectivity

Select the instructions for the verification option you would like to set up:

Please email helpdesk@nhcc.edu if you have any issues.

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