Introduction

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security measure that requires you to verify your identity using additional information, such as a password plus a code sent to your phone or generated via an authentication app. MFA helps protect your account from unauthorised access, even if someone knows your password.

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This article is helpful for all University of Warwick staff and students.

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Last revised: 29/04/24

Understanding Multi-factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security method that requires users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to verify their identity to access a system or service. The evidence can be something the user knows (such as their password or PIN), something the user has, to receive or generate a code (via an SMS to your smartphone or using an authenticator app), or something unique to the user (like a fingerprint or facial scan).

Why is Multi-factor Authentication Important?

MFA is important because it adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts and data. By requiring more than one factor to authenticate, MFA makes it harder for hackers or cybercriminals to access your information or impersonate you. MFA can also help you prevent unauthorised access in case your phone or password is stolen, lost, or compromised.

How does Multi-factor Authentication Work?

MFA works by asking you to provide more information after your user code and password. By layering information that is unique to a user, MFA makes it much harder for anyone to gain unauthorised access to your devices and your data.

Depending on the system or service you are using, you may be asked to enter a code sent to your phone or email, scan a QR code with your smartphone, enter a code from a fob or security key, or use a biometric feature. You may also have the possibility to remember your device or browser, so you don't have to provide the added factors every time you log in.

You will need one of these methods to log-in to teaching computers or student workspace computers, so please remember to:

• Set up an authenticator app on your phone.
• Register your mobile phone to receive a code by SMS.
• Make sure you take your phone (or fob) with you to lectures or other workspaces.
• Allow extra time to sign-in at the start of lectures or work.

How to set-up MFA

Please see this article for a guide on how to set up MFA here at the University of Warwick: https://warwick.ac.uk/services/idg/about/infrastructure-operations/training/how-to-set-up-mfa