When you sign into your network account with multi-factor authentication enabled, you'll also approve the sign-in using your phone.
So, even if someone were to steal your password, they couldn't get into your network account without your phone. This makes your account, information, and applications much more secure.
Note: MFA is required of YCP employees and optional for students. To avoid MFA issues during international travel, please see the FAQ section, below, for more info.
Set up MFA
You may set up MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator Mobile app (which we recommend) or text (which does not require the app). Each requires access to your phone. You can start at: aka.ms/mfasetup
Tip: Regardless of which method you use to set up, you may always add the other method later or instead.
Microsoft Authenticator mobile app (recommended)
1. Get Microsoft Authenticator
Notes
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You may use another authenticator, though Microsoft's works best.
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You may install it on another device (such as a tablet) though you'll need that device with you every time you sign in.
Tip: While it installs, you may move on to step 2, below.
2. Set up MFA
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On a computer, visit aka.ms/mfasetup.
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If prompted, sign in with your YCP email address and password.
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If prompted, select Work or school account.
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If prompted, under Stay signed in?, you may select Yes to reduce the number of times you are asked to sign in.
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Under More information required, select Next.
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Under Start by getting the app, select Next.
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Under Set up your account, select Next.
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Open the Authenticator app on your phone.
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Under Scan the QR code, point your phone camera at the QR code.
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Under Scan the QR code, select Next.
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In the Authenticator app
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Select Approve.
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If prompted, enter your phone's passcode, touch ID, face ID, etc.
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Under Microsoft Authenticator, when you see a Notification approved message, select Next.
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If prompted, under Success!, select Done.
Then, if prompted
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Under Phone, enter your phone number.
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Select Next.
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Enter the code that you receive on your phone, then select Next.
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When you see a Your phone was registered successfully message, select Next.
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Under Success!, select Done.
Text
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On a computer, visit aka.ms/mfasetup.
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If prompted, sign in with your YCP email address and password.
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If prompted, select Work or school account.
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If prompted, under Stay signed in?, you may select Yes to reduce the number of times you are asked to sign in.
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Under More information required, select Next.
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Under Start by getting the app, select I want to set up a different method.
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Under Choose a different method, select the drop-down arrow ⌄ , then Phone, then Confirm.
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Under Phone, enter your phone number.
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Select Next.
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Enter the code that you receive on your phone, then select Next.
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When you see a Your phone was registered successfully message, select Next.
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Under Success!, select Done.
Sign in with MFA
Note: If you have not yet set up MFA, follow the Get Authenticator & set up MFA section, above, instead.
Setting up your Account(s)
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On a computer, visit aka.ms/mfasetup.
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If prompted, sign in with your YCP email address and password.
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If prompted, select Work or school account.
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If prompted, under Stay signed in?, you may select Yes to reduce the number of times you are asked to sign in.
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Under More information required, select Next.
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Under Start by getting the app, select Next.
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Under Set up your account, select Next.
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Open the Authenticator app on your phone.
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Under Scan the QR code, point your phone camera at the QR code.
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Under Scan the QR code, select Next.
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In the Authenticator app
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Select Approve.
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If prompted, enter your phone's passcode, touch ID, face ID, etc.
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Under Microsoft Authenticator, when you see a Notification approved message, select Next.
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If prompted, under Success!, select Done.
Then, if prompted
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Under Phone, enter your phone number.
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Select Next.
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Enter the code that you receive on your phone, then select Next.
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When you see a Your phone was registered successfully message, select Next.
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Under Success!, select Done.
FAQ
What is MFA?
- Multi-factor authentication is an approval notification or code (sent to your cell phone) used to sign into your network account. This makes it difficult for someone else to get into your account without this second step.
Why do we need it?
- As computers become more powerful and hackers become more prevalent, passwords alone are no longer enough to protect systems and data. The MFA is linked to your mobile device to ensure that it is you accessing your account.
Who is affected by MFA?
- All YCP and YCDS faculty, staff, student employees, and vendors are required to have MFA in place by January 31, 2022. At this time, students (except student employees) are not required to use it but will be enrolled in the future.
Can I use MFA internationally?
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We've seen issues with MFA when used outside of the country. Please contact us at least two weeks before you leave the USA to ensure that your access is active and functioning properly.
Caution: This will make your account less secure while abroad, so we ask that you understand and carefully follow responsible cybersecurity measures.
How often do I have to approve MFA push notifications or enter a code?
- Once we turn on MFA, you will generally be prompted to approve a notification, or enter the code, every 30 days when signing into my.ycp.edu on a single device and browser.
- You will also have to do so when:
- Signing in on a new device or browser.
- We update the system.
- Microsoft senses a security concern (such as a connection from a new location).
Do I have to set up MFA on every computer I use?
- No, you set up MFA once on your mobile device. Then, approve the notification or enter the code your mobile device provides on any computer or browser you use.
What MFA methods may I choose?
- SMS text messaging
- Push notification
- One-time password code, found within the Authenticator app.
- Note: We're working on adding an automated voice call to landline phone method as well.
Do I have to have cellular or wireless access to use MFA?
- To receive one-time password codes in the Authenticator app, no.
- To download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device and use push notification or SMS text authentication methods, yes.
What if my cellular phone is stolen?
- Notify us as soon as possible.
- We can revoke MFA access from the stolen device, to prevent others from using it to access your account.
Does MFA store my persoanl phone data?
- No. None of your personal data is stored. MFA is not designed for data storage; it is only an authentication program.
Contact Us:
For more information or clarity, please contact Library and Technology Services (LTS)
- Library and Technology Services (LTS):
- Phone: 717-815-1559
- Email: LTShelp@ycp.edu
- Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Still having trouble with Multi-Factor Authenticator?
Submit a Ticket Here