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Overview
You have the option to register a wide variety of devices to use with multifactor authentication. How do you know which device is the best fit? This guide should help you make the decision!
Multifactor Authentication Options

- In a location without wireless access or cell phone service?
If you have a smartphone, you can generate a passcode by opening the Duo app and tapping the key icon. Cell phone service is required if you have a non-smartphone and want to use the text message or phone call option. You can also request a hardware token (see below).
- Don’t have a smartphone or cell phone that you want to register?
You can request a hardware token (a physical device that generates a passcode when you press a button). Stop by the Drop In Support Desk to look into getting one!
- Did you receive a push notification or phone call when you did not try to log in to a service?
Deny the request and report it to the Technology Help Desk at 412-624-HELP [4357].
- Need emergency access?
Call the Technology Help Desk at 412-624-HELP [4357] for an emergency bypass code.
General Guidelines
- If you have a smartphone, enroll your smartphone for multifactor authentication and select Send me a Push when authenticating. A notification will be sent or "pushed" to your smartphone when you try to log in. Tap Approve to complete the login process.
- If you have a regular cell phone, then enroll your phone number for multifactor authentication and select either Call Me or Enter a Passcode when authenticating. Call Me will call your cell phone number and prompt you to press 1 to complete the login process. Enter a Passcode allows you to text a code to you cell phone, which you will then enter to complete the login process.
- If you DO NOT have a cell phone, enroll your office phone and/or home phone for multifactor authentication by completing the steps in “Register a Landline (Office Phone)" below. Use Call Me when authenticating.
- If you DO NOT have a cell phone or a home phone, then stop by the Walk-In Support Desk at the University Store on Fifth to discuss the use of a hardware token.
*NOTE: It is STRONGLY recommended to register more than one device or method: You will need to authenticate from your backup device/method in the case of a lost or stolen primary device, or if you have upgraded or purchased a new phone and have not registered it for multifactor authentication yet.