How to Set Up Multifactor Authentication (MFA) for your SIUE account

This guide walks you through setting up Multifactor Authentication (MFA) for your SIUE account. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring both your password and a verification from your mobile device or phone number, protecting your account from unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.

Setting Up Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

  1. Access Your SIUE Email:

    • Login to your SIUE Email (outlook.office365.com) on your computer.

  2. Start the MFA Setup:

    • A message will appear saying "More Information Required." Click the "Next" button to proceed.

  3. Choose Authentication Method:

    • If you want to use the App (recommended) go to option 1: Mobile App.
    • If you would rather get a text message or phone call for verification go to option 2: Authentication Phone.

Option 1: Mobile App (Recommended)

  1. Install Microsoft Authenticator on Your Phone

    • Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone)
      Microsoft Authenticator Icon
    • Ensure you download the app with the icon shown above, published by "Microsoft Corporation."

  2. Set Up Your Account in the App

    • Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone
    • Tap "Add Account" or the "+" button
    • Select "Work or school account" and then
    • Choose "Scan a QR code."

  3. Connect Your Account

    • On your computer, click "Next" until the QR code appears
      image of computer showing QR code to scan
    • Use your phone's camera to scan the QR code shown on your computer
    • After scanning, click "Next" on your computer to continue

  4. Verify Your Identity

    • A notification will be sent to your phone. Open the notification and verify your identity
    • A two-digit code will appear on your computer screen. Enter this code on your phone when prompted

  5. Complete Setup

    • After approving the verification request, click "Done" on your computer
    • Your account is now protected with MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator app

Option 2: Authentication Phone

  1. To Authenticate with a Call or Text

    • Select "I want to set up a different method" at the bottom of the window
      image of "I want to set up a different method" circled in red
    • Choose "Phone" and then click "Next."

  2. Enter Phone Number

    • Enter your phone number with area code
    • Select whether you want to receive verification codes via text message or phone call
    • Click "Next" to continue

  3. Verify Your Phone

    • If you chose text verification: You'll receive a text message with a code. Enter this code on your computer.
    • If you chose call verification: Answer the call and follow the spoken instructions to verify.

  4. Complete Setup

    • After successful verification, click "Done" to complete the MFA setup.
    • Your account is now protected with MFA using your phone number.

Note: For users without smartphones, security tokens are available as an alternative. Contact the ITS Help Desk for more information about this option.

Need Additional Support?

If you have any questions or need assistance setting up MFA, please contact the ITS Help Desk:

This guide aims to provide useful information, but as technology changes, interfaces or steps might vary. Please use the Comment button to let us know if anything differs from your experience. Your feedback helps us keep this information accurate. Thank you!


    Keywords:
    mfa, multi factor authentication, 2FA, faq, setup, set up, app, mobile app, authenticator app, multifactor, multi-factor, first time, initial setup, microsoft authenticator, verification, security 
    Doc ID:
    124464
    Owned by:
    Jeff P. in Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
    Created:
    2023-02-28
    Updated:
    2025-03-18
    Sites:
    Southern Illinois University Edwardsville