Multi-Factor Authentication Transition

Self-enrollment is launching soon!  Bookmark this page for the latest information.

The University of Miami is planning to transition multi-factor authentication (MFA) services from Duo to Microsoft Authenticator. Microsoft Authenticator is deeply integrated within the broader Microsoft ecosystem, offering a seamless authentication experience across countless applications and platforms. Information regarding self-enrollment is coming soon—stay tuned for more details!

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Overview

All about the transition from Duo to Microsoft Authenticator.

We have analyzed your feedback from a variety of sources, and recognized the opportunity to improve the functionality of our multi-factor authentication (MFA) system, Duo. As a result, we are planning to switch to Microsoft Authenticator.

Enrolling in Microsoft Authenticator will ensure a smooth transition to the new MFA service and uninterrupted access to the University of Miami systems you access. Microsoft Authenticator not only enhances security, but also simplifies access management for our organization—a crucial aspect of our continued growth.

Microsoft Authenticator works by requiring two or more of the following authentication methods:

  • Something you know, typically a password.
  • Something you have, such as a trusted device that's not easily duplicated, like a phone or hardware key.
  • Something you are, via biometrics like a fingerprint or face scan.

Get Started

Learn how to enroll in Microsoft Authenticator!

Self-enrollment information will be shared in the future—stay tuned for additional details.

Cards

Step 1: Download the app.

Download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device from the Apple App store and/or Google Play store.

Using the Microsoft Authenticator app, you can easily verify your University of Miami login.

Step 2: Enroll your device(s).

Follow our enrollment instructions to set up your University of Miami CaneID account with Microsoft Authenticator for the first time:

Access the Microsoft Authenticator Enrollment Guide

Step 3: Review tip sheets.

Get to know how to use Microsoft Authenticator by following the University of Miami's step-by-step tip sheets, including different ways to verify your login and more:

Tip sheets coming soon!

Available Authentication Methods

With Microsoft Authenticator at the University of Miami, you can use the following authentication methods: (1) the Microsoft Authenticator app* to enter the code provided on the login page, and/or (2) a physical hardware token to generate a code.

*Note: The Microsoft Authenticator app is the recommended option, as it works well over WiFi as well as mobile connections.

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  • Microsoft Authenticator App

    Once you've enrolled using the Microsoft Authenticator app, you will enter the number shown on the screen in the app to verify your identity. Full details are included within the enrollment guide.

  • Hardware Token

    An MFA hardware token—or "fob"—is a piece of hardware that is used to authenticate when a person is not using a phone to authenticate on the MFA service. The token is a small, battery-powered device that is usually attached to your keychain. Pressing a button on the token will display a code on the built-in display.

    No one is required to have an MFA token, and most people will not want (or need) a token. Only in special cases (when a phone cannot be used for MFA) should a token be used. (Note: Using a phone (mobile and/or tablet) is the preferred way to use MFA for greater security, having one fewer "thing" to keep track of, battery life, etc.; therefore, only in limited cases will a token be needed or required.)

    MFA tokens are issued via walk-in centers located on each UM campus*. To be issued a token, a person needs to visit a location and provide identification. In some cases, tokens will also be issued to IT departmental partners who can distribute to their colleagues.

    If you would like to add an MFA token as an additional authentication method, please visit one of the convenient locations listed below and an IT specialist will enroll the token in your Microsoft Authenticator account:

    • Coral Gables campus: Student Technology Help Desk (STHD)
      • Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • Location: Richter Library, 3rd Floor, Room 325
      • Email: sthd@miami.edu
      • Call: 305-284-8887

    • Marine campus: RSMAES Computing Facility
    • Medical/UHealth campus: 1501 Building
      • Open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.
      • Location: 1501 NW 9 Ave, Suite 101G, Miami, FL 33136
      • Contact: Terrynce Jones

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? Get answers now.

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  • What is MFA, and what is changing?

    Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a step to the login process and requires you to prove your identity after entering a CaneID and password by responding to a prompt to enter a passcode using a mobile device, tablet, or token. MFA is required for all University of Miami CaneID users, including students, faculty, and staff.

    Based on University community feedback, we are planning on switching MFA services from Duo to Microsoft Authenticator. Enrolling in Microsoft Authenticator will ensure a smooth transition to the new MFA service and uninterrupted access to the University of Miami systems you access.

  • What do I need to do to prepare?

    When self-enrollment is opened (date TBD), you should enroll your device(s) in Microsoft Authenticator.

  • Who do I contact if I run into issues?

    The IT Service Desk is available 24/7 to provide technical support. Contact the IT Service Desk at 305-284-6565 or help@miami.edu.

Technical Support

Need help? We're available 24/7!

For technical support—available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—please contact the IT Service Desk at 305-284-6565 or help@miami.edu.

 

 

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