Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-factor Authentication graphic

This guide is intended to aid and serve as a “how to” for all users as they enroll in Multi-Factor Authentication.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), is a Microsoft delivered feature which better protects enrolled users and their account by requiring additional steps when signing in. By setting up multi-factor authentication, you add an extra layer of security to your Office 365 account. The first step is to sign into portal.office.com, you will automatically be prompted to enroll your device.

When you sign in from outside the CSM Network, you will be prompted to verify it is YOU signing into your account.  There are two verification options, an app or a phone call. The Microsoft Authenticator App is the preferred choice for your verification method. It is an easy to use verification method that does not result in any call related charges.

Options for MFA are:

  • Microsoft Authenticator App - If using this as an option, app installation can happen during enrollment or before. The Microsoft Authenticator App is available for mobile devices on both Android and iOS. We highly recommend this option because it is the most secure and reliable method.
  • Telephone Number - May use a mobile line number or a home phone number.

Setting Up MFA

Accessing Multi-Factor Authentication Enrollment:

You will be prompted to enroll in MFA the first time you sign in from outside the CSM network. Please see ‘Example MFA enrollment’.   You will not be prompted for MFA when signing in from your office, classroom, or open computer lab.

To modify your enrollment options, please see ‘How to Change/Update Your MFA Options’.   Briefly, just sign in to portal.office.com, click on your picture or initials in the circle on the upper right corner, then click on My Account, Security & privacy on the left, select Additional security verification, and finally, select Update your phone numbers used for account security.

Example MFA Enrollment:

  1. Sign in to Office 365 at portal.office.com, which will take you to the Microsoft Sign in:

    Sign in screen on O365

    Enter your myCSMD username followed by @csmd.edu for employees or @mymail.csmd.edu for students, press next.

  2. You will be redirected the CSM login page.

    Screenshot of Access Manager login
  3. Once signed in you will automatically be directed to the Additional security verification App Passwords Page.

    Screenshot of screen that says more information required

  4. Choose which method of verification you would prefer. IMT recommends the Mobile App as your primary and Authentication Phone Number as a secondary verification. The Mobile App is available on iOS and Android.

    Screenshot of screen that says Additional security verification

  5. IMT recommends to receive notifications for verification also called Pushed Notifications. This will result in a pop-up on your mobile device. Click Setup.
    Screenshot of screen that says Addiitonal security verification

  6. The configure mobile app will appear. Follow the directions to complete the mobile app setup.
    Screenshot of authentication screen

  7. Microsoft will now check the activation status. Once activated, click Next.
    Additional security verification screen

  8. Microsoft will send a Push Notification to your Mobile Device as shown below. Click Approve to complete your mobile device setup.
    Approve sign in screenshot

  9. The next step will be to add a second verification method. This is helpful and recommended. IMT recommends do not use the mobile number which the app is installed on. If your mobile phone is not available then both methods of verification would not be accessible. Use of a home phone number or a direct line office phone number.
    Additional security verification screenshot

  10. Once a second verification method has been entered, click Next. You will be redirected to the Stay Signed In screen, click Yes, and your Multi-Factor Authentication process will be completed.
    Screenshot of Stay Signed In screen
  1. Log into portal.office.com. Click your picture or initials in the upper right hand corner, then "My account."
    Step 1 login screen

  2. Select "Security & privacy" on the left hand side. Then select "Additional security verification."
    Screenshot of Security and Privacy screen

  3. Click "Update your phone number used for account security."
    Screenshot of Security and privacy screen

  4. This opens the setup screen where you will be able to change/update your options such as edit phone numbers, add an alternate authentication phone (as a third method), or add a second mobile device. For further assistance, please contact the IMT HelpDesk help@csmd.edu of 301-934-7740.
    Additional security verification screenshot
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