Remote Learning Guide: MFA

Future students are prompted to register a personal email address for Microsoft Entra Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) upon login. Once enrolled or accepted to a program Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is also required for faculty, staff, and all students. When accessing a College system for the first time as an enrolled or accepted student, you will be prompted to register an account verification methods for added security. You have several options, but for the best experience, use the Microsoft Authenticator app. It is recommended to complete this process using both a smartphone and a computer.

Note: if you do not have a smartphone, click on the “I want to set up a different method” link.

Step 1: Confirm that your email address displays at the top and click the blue “Next” button: 

Step 2: Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from the apps store on your smartphone. Then click the blue “Next” button on your computer: 

Step 3: Open the authenticator app on your smartphone and click “Add account” and select “Work or school account” from the options. You will be asked if you want to “Sign in” or “Scan QR code.” Select “Scan QR Code.” Note: you may have to allow the app to use your phone’s camera. The process should look something like this: 

Step 4: Move back to your computer and click the blue “Next” button: 

Step 5: Scan the QR code on your computer screen with the QR code reader window on your smartphone. Scanning the QR code will automatically add your Madison College email account to the authenticator app. Click the blue “Next” button:

Step 6: You will be asked to test the authenticator app by entering the random number displayed on your computer on your smartphone. After you approve the notification with the number you will see “Notification approved” on your computer. Click the blue “Next” button:

Step 7: You will see a summary of your registered sign-in methods. Click the blue “Done” button. You will then be directed to the system you intended to log into (i.e., student email, Blackboard, myMadisonCollege, Virtual Desktop, etc.):

You will now be asked for added verification when attempting to log into any Madison College system. Depending on the options registered, you may be prompted to enter a code received via text, press pound upon receipt of a phone call, or approve a notification via number match with the app.

MFA is required when using Madison College services off-campus. In a limited number of situations, you may be prompted for MFA on campus. Plan to bring your device with you to campus. If you are prompted on campus, complete the verification and, if asked, set up an additional method.

If you are prompted on campus but do not have your device, call Student Technology Help at 608.243.4444 during library open hours OR stop by your campus library.