Multi-Factor Authentication

It's easy - just sign in, verify, and get access!



Get extra security to help protect your information and keep the College safe, enable multi-factor authentication on your Microsoft Office 365 account today.

Self-Enrollment

It's highly recommended to self-enroll in multi-factor authentication for your security, it only takes a moment. The preferred and easiest method of multi-factor authentication enrollment requires both a computer and a mobile device, usually a smartphone. Click below and follow the instructions to self-enroll.

Self-Enroll in Multi-Factor Authentication →

Alternative options:
(Note: Links below will take you to Minnesota State University Mankato website.)

Automatic Enrollment

As part of an initiative to increase security across campus, some groups are automatically enrolled in multi-factor authentication. Groups scheduled for automatic enrollment will receive a series of reminder emails. If you think you've been automatically enrolled, click below and follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

Complete Automatic Enrollment →

Alternative options:
(Note: Links below will take you to Minnesota State University Mankato website.)

Change Verification Settings

Already enrolled in multi-factor authentication but want to change how you receive verifications or set up a back-up verification method? Click below.

Change Verification Settings →

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is multi-factor authentication?

A: Multi-factor authentication is a powerful security tool to help you protect your accounts. It creates layered protection that requires users to sign in using more than one verification method, which helps keep the College safe and helps prevent cybercriminals from gaining access to your personal information.


Q: How do I self-enroll in multi-factor authentication?

A: Enrolling in multi-factor authentication yourself is quick and easy! Just follow the set-up instructions:


Q: I've been automatically enrolled, how do I complete the setup process?

A: Some groups are automatically enrolled in multi-factor authentication and will receive reminder emails. Once you're auto-enrolled, follow these instructions to complete the setup process:


Q: Do I have to use my personal smart phone to verify my sign-in?

A: No, you do not have to use your personal smartphone for verification. You can set multi-factor authentication to verify through a phone call. Follow the set-up instructions below:


Q: If I don't have a smartphone, how do I verify my sign-in?

A: Even if you don't have a smartphone, you can still use multi-factor authentication. Enroll using your office or personal phone and receive a call or text with a verification code for sign-in. Follow these


Q: I lost my smartphone - what can I do?

A: If you lose your smartphone, you can still verify your sign-in using another method. You should also immediately take steps to find and secure your device.


Q: I am not receiving any verification codes to sign in

A: Multi-factor authentication for Microsoft Office 365 does not always require verification if it remembers the device you are using. On the devices that Office 365 remembers, it will periodically ask for verification, but not always.

If you are not receiving your verification and you think you should be, read instructions on how to resolve.


Q: I replaced my smart phone

A: If you recently got a new smart phone, follow the instructions below to set up multi-factor authentication:


Q: Can I opt out of multi-factor authentication?

A: Multi-factor is a critical security tool that protects your data as well as the data of our students. Once enrolled in multi-factor authentication your respective Vice President, or the Provost for Academic Affairs units will need to request an exception on your behalf by contacting the IT department.

For your request to be evaluated, please describe the business need for an exception to multi-factor authentication.


Q: What email clients are compatible with Office 365 multi-factor authentication?

A: The following email clients are compatible with Office 365 multi-factor authentication:

  • Outlook for Windows
  • Outlook for macOS
  • Outlook for Android
  • Outlook for iOS
  • Gmail app for Android
  • Mail app for iOS
  • Mozilla Thunderbird is not supported at this time. Mozilla has announced future support (currently in beta)

Q: What other services are attached to Office 365 multi-factor authentication?

A: Any app that utilizes Microsoft Office 365 single sign-on, including all Office 365 apps, may require authentication.




Support Resources

Note: Links below will take you to Minnesota State University Mankato website.

Multi-Factor Enrollment Automatic - Mobile Device
How do I enroll in MFA through a mobile device?

Multi-Factor Enrollment Self Enroll - Mobile Device Only
How do I enroll in MFA with my mobile device?

iOS Mail App: Action Required to Access Your Email
How do I access by email fo iOS Mail App?

What is Multi-factor Authentication?
What is Multi-factor Authentication?

Multi-factor Authentication FAQ - Multi-factor vs. two-factor
Is multi-factor authentication the same as two-factor authentication?

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