Contents
Overview
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is used for Kellogg and Northwestern systems, including email and Microsoft Office 365, to enhance security and comply with updated protocols. MFA ensures only you can access your email. Even if someone obtains your password, they cannot log in without your approval for the access request.
While most people are using compatible email apps and won't experience any issues, some apps are not compatible with the new security protocols. See our Best Practices section below for a full list of compatible email apps.
What to Expect
Most people are already set up with MFA, but you can find out more about MFA and ensure you're properly set up by visiting the Northwestern IT MFA page.
If you check the Remember me checkbox when you see the MFA prompt (see screenshot below), then once you have approved the login request, you won't be prompted again for another ~30 days on that computer, phone, or tablet - but you may be prompted again on your other devices.
We recommend installing the Duo app on your phone so that you can use the Send Me a Push option.
Apps that will require MFA
A listing is available on the Northwestern IT Microsoft 365 page, but some of the most frequently used apps are:
- Outlook
- Word
- PowerPoint
- Excel
- SharePoint
- Power BI
- Teams
Best Practices
Set Up MFA & Install the Duo App
Visit the Northwestern MFA page to find info on how to:
- Register for MFA
- Change or update your MFA-registered devices/phones
- Install the Duo app
Use Compatible Email Apps
We recommend using Outlook or the Outlook Web App, but we understand that not everyone can or likes to use Outlook. A list of applications that are compatible with MFA is below:
| Windows | MacOS | iOS | Android | Linux |
|
Outlook |
Outlook |
Outlook |
Outlook |
Outlook Web App (OWA) |
Phone OS compatibility
Some iOS and Android versions may be too old to install the DUO Mobile app. Below are the requirements for each platform. If your OS is older than those listed here, you will need to upgrade to a more recent OS in order to install the DUO app and use it successfully.
iOS
The current version of Duo Mobile supports iOS 15.0 and greater.
Andriod
The current version of Duo Mobile supports Android 11.0 and greater and Android Go 11.0 and greater. Duo recommends upgrading to the most recent version of Android available for your device. We cannot ensure the compatibility of Duo Mobile with custom variants or distributions of Android. Duo Mobile is not supported for use on ChromeOS or Huawei.
FAQs
Q: Where can I find the full list of software and services that will require MFA?
A: All Microsoft 365 apps will require MFA. The list of apps is on the NU Microsoft 365 page.
Q: Where can I get MFA or Duo support?
A: Because MFA is implemented university-wide, it is managed by NUIT and not directly by KIS. You can contact NUIT at consultant@northwestern.edu or call 847-491-4357.
Q: What if I have MFA/Duo issues outside of business hours?
A: Please contact NUIT at consultant@northwestern.edu or call 847-491-4357. An MFA admin is on-call 24 hours a day.
Q: What do I do if the software I use for email isn't on the compatibility list?
A: You can use the Outlook Web App (OWA) from your web browser to access your email.
Q: Where can I find more information on this security initiative?
A: You can visit the Securing Northwestern Email project page for additional information.