First Time MFA Set up

How to Configure Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

When your account is ready to be configured for MFA and you login to a Kent State University system requiring MFA, you will receive a notification as you sign in informing you that more information is required. On this page, click "Next":

  • If you are not prompted for this on login, GO HERE and login with your full @kent.edu email address.


 

Select one of the following options as your default MFA. We Recommend using the SMS Text and Phone Call:

It is recommended you configure more then one MFA option.  To configure a second option follow the instructions for the mobile app first and then use the instructions in the How to Configure Additional Multi-Factor Authentication Options to configure the phone number to receive SMS texts or phone calls. 


Configuration steps for “Mobile App with a Verification Code” 

  • If you decided to use the Microsoft Authenticator app as one of your authentication verification methods, please install the app on your mobile device prior to starting this process.  The Microsoft Authenticator App is available for iOS and Android.
  • MFA configuration should be done from a laptop or desktop. Configuring the Microsoft Authenticator App requires scanning a QR code displayed on screen. You will not be able to scan the QR code if you are configuring MFA on the same device that has the Microsoft Authenticator App installed.

Once you start the process of configuring the Microsoft Authenticator App, do not use your browser's "Back" button. If you need to stop configuration for any reason, use the “Back” buttons included as part of the configuration process. 

After clicking “Next” on the screen above, you will be redirected to the MFA configuration page. Setting up the Microsoft Authenticator App is the default option on this page. 

  1. Make sure you have the Microsoft Authenticator App on your mobile device. Once installed, click "Next." 

    Start by getting the app
     
  2. In the Microsoft Authenticator App, click the icon to add new accounts. 

  3. In the Microsoft Authenticator App, choose the “Work or School Account” option. This will open your camera with a box highlighted in blue. You will use this to scan your computer screen in Step 5.

    Choose Work or school account

  4. Back on your laptop or desktop, click “Next” on the “Set up your account” screen.