Multi-Factor Authentication Protect your NWTC account from unwanted access

Starting October 12^th, 2022 students will be required to enroll in MFA through Microsoft.

Enrolling with Microsoft:

NWTC has chosen Microsoft Authenticator to provide MFA to all active students. Please review the following link for more information about how it works here. We recommend you choose to receive notifications with the Microsoft Authenticator app. With the app, you can simply tap “Approve” on the push notifications you receive on your device. You also have the option to use SMS text message, phone call, or a security key to enroll in MFA.

New to MFA?

You will be able to sign up for MFA when you log into Microsoft. 

• Step #1 – Learn the details on how to enroll: Review the instructions and watch the video.
• Step#2 – Enroll in MFA.
• Step #3 - Review your security information, add an additional device, or change your current device by visiting your security options page.

If you do not have the technology to successfully enroll in MFA, contact the NWTC Student Help Desk at 920-498-6900 for support.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I get MFA? 

After reviewing these instructions, log in to Microsoft with your NWTC student ID number@nwtc.edu (example: 12345678@nwtc.edu). Lastly, complete the enrollment of security information.

Do I have to use a smartphone to get MFA?

No; any telephone, Microsoft supported security key, or smart device will work. You could also have SMS text messages sent to your phone or receive phone calls as your verification. (However, with smart devices, you will get the quickest, simplest experience!)

Should I enroll more than one device?

Yes, we encourage you to enroll more than one device so you have a backup if your main device is lost or unavailable. To add additional devices, visit your security options page.

What do I do if I lost my device, left it at home, or am experiencing difficulties authenticating? 

Check out these common troubleshooting tips from Microsoft. Call the NWTC Student Help Desk for assistance at 920-498-6900. Depending on your circumstance, the Help Desk can either generate a temporary access pass or assist you in configuring another device for MFA.

Is MFA mandatory?

Yes, all NWTC students will be required to enroll in multi-factor authentication (MFA) to provide an additional layer of security for their NWTC account. MFA is an essential element of cybersecurity, and it will aid in protecting everyone’s online information at NWTC. If you do not have the technology to enroll in MFA, reach out to the Student Help Desk for support at 920-498-6900.

I do not have cellular service; how can I log in to my account?

By using the Microsoft Authenticator app, you will be able to use a 6-digit, one-time password code for your account to log in.

What if I am a student and an employee?

While a student is employed by NWTC the student will use DUO as their MFA system and be removed from Microsoft as their MFA system.  In the event the student ends employment with NWTC, they will return to using Microsoft as their MFA system.  If you are a student who is also an employee, please review our Using MFA for Staff section.

Enrolling with Duo:

NWTC has partnered with Duo Security to provide multi-factor authentication (MFA) for NWTC employees. See below to get started! 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who is required to use Duo at NWTC?

All NWTC employees, partners, student workers, and others who access certain NWTC information systems are required to use Duo at NWTC..

What options are available for MFA at NWTC?

• Duo push notification using the Duo Mobile App on a smartphone or tablet (recommended option).
• Passcode using the Duo Mobile App on a smartphone or tablet.
• Duo phone call (landline, office phone, home phone, cell phone).
• Security key.

Can I use text messages/SMS for MFA at NWTC?

No, text message/SMS is not available as an MFA method for Duo at NWTC.

Will I need to use Duo when logging onto my PC at NWTC?

No, you do not need to use Duo when logging onto NWTC computers.

What if I do not want to use my personal device?

1. You can set up Duo to call your desk phone or personal phone. However, if your phone is not available, you will not be able to access systems protected by Duo.
2. You can request a hardware token (security key) from the NWTC Help Desk. This is a small device,you can attach to a key ring or just carry with you. The device will generate a 6-digit code you will need to enter on screen when prompted. 

I already use the Duo Mobile App; can I use it for NWTC?

Yes; however, you still need to enroll with Duo for NWTC. Click the "plus sign" in the upper right-hand corner of your Duo app to add NWTC.

If you use Duo app notifications, always make sure you read the information contained on the app notification to make sure you are logging into the correct app and that the login is legitimate.

I don’t have cellular service; how can I log in?

Using the Duo Mobile App on your smart phone or tablet will allow you to generate a code to use while logging in. When signing in, choose the “other options” link on the Duo authentication popup. A landline or other phone may be used to gain access to systems protected by Duo. Set up a backup device your Duo account.

Email stopped working on my phone, what should I do?

Try updating the password in your Outlook app first. If that does not work, you will need to remove and re-add your NWTC account to your Outlook app. NWTC does not support the built-in mail app for smart phones. 

What if my account locks out?

If you fail to log in to a Duo-protected application more than 10 times without completing the required MFA verification, your account will be temporarily locked out. You may try again to log in after 10-15 minutes or contact the Help Desk for assistance.