This guide will help you identify the best authentication method to support your use of multi factor authentication to access University digital services. We recommend that you register two methods of authentication. If in doubt you can use the decision tree to help you make this selection.Microsoft Authenticator (Recommended option)You will need:An Android or iOS device: smartphone, tablet. Internet access if using authorisation prompts.Download and install the MS Authenticatorauthenticator.cchttps://authenticator.cc is a free browser extension compatible with Chrome, Edge and Firefox that can be used as a verification method for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for services that require it.Unlike the Microsoft Authenticator App, https://authenticator.cc can be installed on a desktop or laptop computer and is therefore accessible for people who do not have access to a smartphone.How to use authenticator.cc Alternative authenticatorYou will need a Windows, macOS, Linux, Android or iOS device, such as a smartphone, tablet, desktop, or laptop.How to use alternative authenticatorsHardware Token (Security Key)In rares cases where University members may have interrupted access to standard MFA methods, or cannot use them for other reasons, it is possible for them to use a physical hardware token, similar to a USB key, which can generate an MFA code without internet access.How to acquire, register and use an MFA Hardware Token Further MFA methods (Less secure) IMPORTANT: Whilst they still exist, the following are nowadays considered less-secure methods, and are being withdrawn early in 2027. They should not be used and anyone currently using them should migrate to an alternative method:Phone callYou will need a device able to receive phone calls, such as a mobile phone, office phone, or smartphone.How to use phone calls as an authentication methodText messageYou will need a device able to receive text messages, such as a mobile phone.How to use text message as an authentication method Need help to decide? Text based decision treeQuestion 1 - Do you have a mobile device?Yes: Go to Question 2.No: Go to Question 4.Question 2 - Do you already use an authenticator app on your mobile, e.g. Google Authenticator?Yes: Use your existing authenticator app.No: Go to Question 3.Question 3 - Would you be willing to install an authenticator app on your phone for the purpose of MFA?Yes: Use the Microsoft Authenticator app.No: Go to Question 4.Question 4 - Would you be willing to install an authentication app on your laptop/PC for MFA?Yes: Use authenticator.ccNo: Go to question 5, or contact your local IT support to discuss alternatives.Question 5 - Are you willing to purchase a compatible Hardware Token?Yes: Go to https://edin.ac/mfa-hardware-tokens for details on buying a Hardware Token.No: Contact https://edin.ac/helpline to request a Hardware Token.Ready to register?Register Now Need any further help?Get MFA Support This article was published on Tuesday 8 October 2024
