Duo Multi-Factor Authentication

MFA protects your accounts using two types of proof: something you know (a password), something you have (like your phone), or something you are (like a fingerprint). Using two of these together makes it much harder for someone to access your account, even if they know your password. 

Most modern phones support Duo. Check the compatibility guides for iOS and Android

Yes. Push notifications work anywhere the USA doesn't have sanctions in place. You can also use the app to generate a code instead. See the list of sanctioned countries. 

Duo is the app we use for MFA at Northumbria. It sends a quick approval request to your phone each time you log in. It's free and available on the Apple and Android app stores. 

MFA adds an extra layer of security to your account. Even if someone gets hold of your password, they can't log in without also approving it on your phone. This protects both your personal files and the wider University's systems from common cyber attacks. 

You'll only need to authenticate when using protected systems, including Office 365 (Teams, Outlook), the Student Portal, and MyAccess. You'll need to do this each time you log in on a new device. It takes under 20 seconds using the app. 

You will receive an email from the Duo portal. You will need to click and follow the prompts. Please ensure you use your own mobile number when registering for Duo as this is where your push notification will be sent.

We have also prepared a guide to help you to complete your enrolment, and we would encourage you to read this in full.

Register as soon as you get your invitation email. After that, you'll be redirected to Duo automatically the next time you try to access a protected system. The email comes from no-reply@duosecurity.com with the subject “Duo Security Enrolment.” 

No. Everyone who logs into a Northumbria service, account, file, or system needs to enrol. If you don't, you won't be able to access anything that requires MFA. 

Usually less than 10 minutes. 

No. The app is the quickest option, but you can also use SMS or phone calls. If you'd rather not use a mobile device, or your device isn't compatible, we can give you a Duo Access Token — a small device that generates a one-time code. Please visit the IT Place (Student Commons, Ground Floor, Newcastle City Library) or call the Service Desk on 0191 227 4242.

Yes, as long as your phone has Wi-Fi or mobile data. If the push notification doesn't come through, you can generate a passcode in the app instead. 

Yes. You'll need to authenticate any time you access a Duo-protected system, whether you're at home or on campus. 

You can get a bypass code which is valid for 10 hours. To request a code, please visit the IT Place (Student Commons, Ground Floor, Newcastle City Library) or call the Service Desk on 0191 227 4242.

If you keep the same number, your enrolment should carry over automatically (iPhone users with iCloud set up will also carry this over via Apple ID). If it doesn't, or you've changed your number, contact the IT Service Desk for a new enrolment link. 

Yes, though enrolling or authenticating can occasionally be tricky. Phone call authentication can be unreliable due to local regulations, but SMS works as normal. Android users can download the app directly since Google Play isn't available in China. There are no known issues for iOS users. 

This is usually fixed by removing and re-adding your email account. Steps vary depending on whether you use the Outlook app, Mail for Windows, or the Mac Mail client. 

Outlook App

If you are having issues using the Outlook app, you will first need to remove your account and re-add it. To do this follow the steps below:

1. From the main Outlook view, select File in the upper left of the screen
2. Select Account Settings from the Account Settings dropdown
3. Select the account you wish to remove, then click remove
4. Click Yes to approve
5. To add the account, navigate back to File
6. Select Add an account
7. Enter your Northumbria Username and Password

Mail for Windows

To resolve this issue whilst using the Mail App for Windows, you will need to remove and re-add your email account.

To add an account on the app:

1. Go to the Mail app on Windows
2. Select Settings
3. Select Manage Accounts, then add account
4. Choose your account type (Outlook.com)
5. Enter your Northumbria Username and Password
6. Once the account has been added successfully you should be prompted with Duo.

MAC Mail Client

1. If you have trouble with your email using the Apple mail client, follow the guide below:
2. Launch Mail. (Click the icon in the dock or go to the Applications folder to open it.)
3. Add a mail account:
   
4. If you have not previously configured an account in Mail you will be prompted to add an account. Click Exchange and then click Continue.
5. Otherwise, go to the Mail menu and click Add Account > Exchange and then click Continue.
6. Enter the following information:
   
7. Full Name: the name you want displayed on your outgoing mail
8. Email Address: @northumbria.ac.uk (do not use an email alias)
9. Password: your ID password
10. Click Sign In
11. You will be prompted for a two-step authentication. Authenticate to continue.
12. Select the apps you want to use with this account and then click Done.

When you log into a lecture theatre or classroom computer and try to access OneDrive or another Office 365 app, you'll be prompted to sign in with your Northumbria credentials. If it doesn't prompt automatically, click the cloud icon near the clock in the bottom right of the screen. Make sure you have your registered Duo device with you. 

For support, please visit IT Support 365.