Multi-factor authentication (MFA) set up

Set up the Authenticator app on your smartphone or tablet

If you have more than one device, you should install the app on multiple devices (e.g. smartphone and tablet, or two smartphones), in case you lose access to one. Both will notify you when a login needs approval.

If you are setting up MFA prior to travelling to the UK to study, be sure to bring the device that the app is set up on

Set up the Authenticator app

For your first login you will need the smartphone or tablet you intend to use as your second factor, as well as a computer or tablet for the initial set up.

The app should not be installed on a device you share with anyone, for example, a shared family device

Set up the mobile app

1. Get the app

Install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone or tablet via:

Exclamation mark on a yellow triangle with a black norderTip: If you are changing your phone and getting a new number, then it's important that you setup your new phone before wiping your old one.

2. Open the app

Open the app on your device and allow notifications if prompted.

  • Select the plus (+) icon
  • Select Work or school account 
  • Select Scan QR code
3. Get the QR code

On your computer or other device Login to UofG Microsoft MySign-Ins with your University email address and password.
You'll be redirected to a Microsoft page with a window headed Lets keep you account secure
Select Next (3 times) until a QR code is displayed

4. Scan the QR code

Use your phone or tablet to scan the QR code
On your device, select Next .

5. Approve sign in

Your phone or tablet will prompt you to approve the sign-in by entering into the app the number shown on your computer or setup tablet. 
You should then see a message on your computer telling you the notification is approved. Select Next on your computer.

Success! You have set up multi-factor authentication. Select Done.

6. IMPORTANT! Set up a second sign-in method as back up

You may be asked if you want to stay signed in select Yes to be redirected to My Sign-ins to review your settings. We recommend adding your mobile number as an additional sign-in method in case you lose access to the app.

To do this:

  1. Select Add method
  2. Select Phone from the drop-down menu. (Do not choose Office phone as this will not work.)
  3. Select Add.
  4. Add your mobile number and select Text me a code. Select Next.
  5. Enter the code you received by text message and select Next.

You can now review your settings again on My Sign-Ins. Close the window to finish.

New students -if you havent already done so please change your UofG password
(It will expire after 6 logins)

No smartphone or tablet?

If you don’t have a smartphone, select “I want to set up a different method” and follow the Set up your phone instructions
Select Next to follow the on-screen instructions

More information

Set up a second device

If you have another Android or iOS device (e.g an Android tablet or iPad) we strongly advise also setting up the Authenticator App on that device to ensure continuous access.

Getting a new phone

Important information about changing your phone 

When you setup your device to use MFA it will be needed to approve login from time to time.
This means that if you replace your phone or your phone is damaged you will be unable to use MFA. 

  • Having your phone number setup as an additional sign-in method will allow you to access your account when you port the number or transfer the sim card to your new device .
  • If you are also getting a new number, then it's important that you setup your new phone before wiping your old one.

Find out more about changing to a new phone

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