Setup & Management Guide for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Overview

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) provides an added layer of protection to make unauthorized access to your UM WebID more difficult.

At its core, MFA relies on two things. To sign in successfully, you need:

Something you know: Your UM WebID credentials.
Something you have: Your phone or device.

MFA is required to access online applications, such as Blackboard, Banner, Workday, Email, and VPN.

Recommendation: UM IT Security recommends registering at least two (2) methods to ensure you never lose access.

Primary: Microsoft Authenticator App (Fastest & Most Secure)
Secondary: Text messages (SMS), phone call, or a Password Manager

Setup MFA using Microsoft Authenticator (recommended primary method)

Go to mfasetup.olemiss.edu on a computer.
Log in using your WebID and password if you aren't already signed in.
- Students: Use WebID@olemiss.edu (NOT @go.olemiss.edu)
Click +Add a sign-in method, choose Authenticator app, and press Add.

The Microsoft security info dashboard. A button labeled "+ Add sign-in method" is highlighted.

4. On a smartphone, install Microsoft Authenticator. Alternatively, search the app store for Microsoft Authenticator.

Ensure the application is published by Microsoft Corporation.

5. Once installed, open the application and allow notifications, if prompted.

6. To add an account, click + at the top of the app window.

7. Select Work or school account, followed by Scan a QR Code.

8. On your computer, click Next on the "Start by getting the app" window. Click Next on the "Set up your account" window.

9. Use your smartphone to scan the QR code displayed on the screen.

10. Your account should now be added to the app. On your computer, click Next. A 2-digit number should appear on your computer screen. Enter this number into the notification on your smartphone to approve the login.

11. Click Next and Done to complete the configuration process.

A split view showing a QR code on a computer monitor and a smartphone screen prompting the user to enter a 2-digit number for verification.

For a video demonstration of the MFA enrollment process, please visit here.

To Modify Existing Settings and Devices

Important: The Microsoft Authenticator app does not automatically transfer to new phones.

If you get a new phone number, a new device, or need to delete an old device:

Go to https://mfasetup.olemiss.edu and log in with your WebID credentials.
Once logged in, you will see a list of your configured methods.
- To Update a Phone Number: First delete the old phone number, then re-add the new phone number.
- To Delete an Old Method: Select "Delete" next to an old device or method you no longer use.
- To Add a new Method: Select "+ Add sign-in method."

3. On the Add sign-in method prompt, select one of the following options:

Troubleshooting

Lost Access / Locked Out?

If you have lost your phone and cannot access any of your registered methods, you cannot reset this yourself.

Contact the IT Helpdesk for an MFA Reset:

Email: helpdesk@olemiss.edu
Phone: 662-915-5222
Location: Weir 100
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM