Set Up and Use Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Guide

Description

This guide walks you through enrolling in Duo Mobile for secure authentication at ISU. It includes step-by-step instructions for downloading the app, registering your device, and completing the initial setup.

  • Note: If you are unable to use the standard authentication method, please contact the IT Service Desk for an accessible alternative.

Warning: [Complete all steps of the DUO enrollment process in a single session to avoid errors or interruptions. If enrollment is not finished in one session, you may experience errors when accessing DUO-protected applications or websites and will need to contact the IT Service Desk for help.

Guide Navigation

Step 1: Download the Duo Mobile App

Download Duo Security's mobile application from your smartphone's app store.

Notes:

  • This is a free app and appears under the name Duo Mobile.
  • The current version of Duo Mobile supports iOS 16 or greater and Android 11 or greater.
  • If your device does not support the app, you can submit a Duo Token request, but setup and login may take longer.

Step 2: Device Registration

Warning: Keep your device updated to the latest version of Android or iOS to maintain security.

Activate DUO Mobile from your Computer

  1. Go to iam.isu.edu (external link)
  2. Sign in using your ISU user name and password.
    • Note: A message appears saying Welcome to Duo Security
  3. Choose Get started.
  4. Under First, add a device, choose Duo Mobile.
  5. Enter your phone number.
  6. Check the box to agree to messages from Duo.
  7. Choose Continue.
  8. Double-check that you have entered your phone number correctly.
    1. Choose Yes, it's correct to continue.
    2. Choose No, I need to change it if you need to go back and enter the number again.
  9. If you haven't done so already, download and install the Duo Mobile app on your phone.
    1. Choose Next.
  10. Open the Duo Mobile app on your phone.
  11. Tap “Add” or “+” in the app.
  12. Use your phone to Use QR code to scan the code displayed on your computer screen.
    1. Note: By default, your account will be named Idaho State University, but you may customize the account name.
  13. Follow the steps on your phone to practice using the Duo Mobile app.

Finish Setup

  1. Click Continue on your computer.
  2. Try a test login or Send Me a Push to confirm it works.

Troubleshooting

Why am I not receiving push notifications?

Android: In most cases, if your phone is on and the screen is active, you can receive messages, and the app will open for a Duo Push request. On the other hand, if the phone is on, receiving messages, and the screen is inactive (dark), you should receive an alert (a sound or vibration) and a message indicating that you have received a Duo Login Request. Open the Duo app and Approve or Deny the request.
Apple: Apple phones don't allow this. If your phone is on and can receive messages, you should receive a message asking, "Are you logging in to Fischer Web SDK?". You can click the request and approve or deny it. In some cases, Apple devices may not display a message indicating that you have received a Duo Push Request. If this happens, open the Duo app and Approve or Deny the request.

Report all Duo Push messages you did not generate to the IT Service Desk. This may indicate that someone is attempting to access your account without authorization and that your password may be compromised. Deny the push notification, then confirm it’s a fraudulent attempt. You should change your ISU password if this occurs.


I don't have my Duo Device (phone, etc) how do I log in?

  • Please contact the IT Service Desk for exceptional situations in which you need to log in but do not have your registered device. They will verify your identity and provide you with a temporary pass code.

What should I do if I get a Duo push notification I didn't expect?

Report all Duo Push messages you did not generate to the IT Service Desk. This may indicate that someone is attempting to access your account without authorization and that your password may be compromised. Deny the push notification, then confirm it’s a fraudulent attempt. You should change your ISU password if this occurs.


Transferring Duo From Your Old Phone

Got a new phone, but still have your old one? 

  1. Install the Duo Mobile app on your new phone.
  2. Log in to the Password and Account Management Portal (IAM) with your ISU Username and Password.
  3. Click on My Security on the left side.
  4. Select Add a deviceunder Duo Devices at the top.
  5. Enter a name for your device under Device Name.
  6. Ensure that you select iOS or Android under Platform Type, depending on the type of phone you have.
  7. Type your phone number in the following format (000) 000-0000 or 000-000-0000.
  8. Click the Check Box after you ensure your number is correct and select Submit.
  9. Select a method to link your new phone and Duo.
    • Send a secure link to 000-000-0000. (Easiest Method)
      1. You will receive a text message.
      2. Open this text message and click on the link inside.
    • Activate Using Duo Mobile
      1. Open Duo Mobile and select Set up account.
      2. Select Use a QR Code.
    • Send an email to the personal email address on file.
      1. You will receive an email from help@isu.edu. Please open this email on the new phone, not on a different device.
      2. Click on the link in the email.
  10. You can now remove your old phone by clicking on your old phone and clicking Remove.

Got a new phone and don't have access to your old phone? 

  1. Install the Duo Mobile app on your new phone.
    • If your number remains the same, please email the IT Service Desk at ​​​​​​help@isu.edu.
      1. We will promptly send you a re-link via email and text message to your personal email address and your current phone number on file.
    • If your number has changed, please connect with the IT Service Desk. 
      1. They will verify your identity and update your ISU account to reflect your new number.
      2. They will then prompt you to re-link with an email and text message to your personal email address and the updated phone number on file.

NoteS:

  • If Duo states that your account is locked out, Please contact the IT Service Desk to resolve this.
  • If you have recently changed device, please contact the IT Service Desk. After verifying your identity, they can help you reactivate your device or set up a new one.

Training and Resources

Request Duo Token Print Article

Related Services / Offerings (1)

Request a Duo token for secure ISU account access if you don’t have a smartphone or work in areas where phones aren’t allowed.