Overview
Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) helps protect your organizational account by requiring a second form of verification during sign-in. This ensures that even if your password is compromised, your account stays secure. Most users set up MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator app, but there are alternative methods available.
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Configure Microsoft MFA using the Authenticator App
The Microsoft Authenticator Application provides 1-touch approval via Push notifications and/or time-based access codes on your smart device, making MFA user-friendly.  The app can be installed from the App Store or Play Store on your iOS or Android device. 
Step 1.  Please install this application on your cell phone before beginning this process. Open the app and agree to the Privacy statement. 
Step 2. Log into your MyEOL account from a computer.  On first access, you will be asked to provide more information to keep your account secure.  Click “Next”. 
| Note: After the initial setup, you will no longer see the "More Information Required" page. If you wish to configure Microsoft Authentication as one of your authentication methods, you can access the portal directly https://nccu.edu/ssprsetup |
Step 3. Click “Next”. 
Step 4. Enter Password and Click “Sign in”. 
Step 5. Click “Next”. 
Step 6. Open the Authenticator App on your smart device.  If prompted, allow notifications. Then add an account and select “Work or School”. 
 
Step 7.  Scan the QR Code (on your screen) with the Authenticator App. After you scan the QR code, choose “Next”. 
Step 8.  Approve the notification we’re sending to your app on your smart device. 
Step 9.  Your registration is now complete. 
Configure Microsoft MFA Without a Smartphone
The Microsoft Authenticator Application provides 1-touch approval via Push notifications and/or time-based access codes on your smart device, making MFA user-friendly.  Phone call allows you to use your mobile phone or office phone to receive a verification request through your phone.  With this MFA method, you'll receive a phone call from Microsoft, and be prompted to press the # (pound) key on your phone's dial pad to authenticate your login. 
Note: If you've decided to use phone calls for your MFA method, we would strongly recommend having your phone on hand before the setup process.  
| ** Using office phones for MS MFA is not recommended as it ties the authentication process to a physical location, limiting access when you are away from the office. Additionally, it poses a security risk if the office is unattended, as anyone with access to the phone could potentially receive authentication requests. **  |
Step 1.  When prompted on the "Keep your account secure" page, select "I want to set up a different method”. 
 
Step 2. Select "Phone" and “Confirm”.  
Note: Office phone is not recommended.  
Step 3. Enter your phone number and select "Call Me" or “Receive a Code”. 
Step 4. Click “Next”. 
Step 5. Insert the 6-digit code and click “Next”. 
Step 6. Click “Next”. 
Step 7.  Your registration is now complete. 
Restore MFA on a New Phone (Same Number)
If you've upgraded or replaced your phone but kept the same phone number, you’ll need to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app again on your new device. While your number may still work for text or call verification, the Authenticator app does not automatically transfer to a new phone. Follow the steps below to restore access and avoid sign-in issues.
| Important: You will need accessibility to a computer and the new cell phone for restoration |
Step 1.  Please install this application on your new cell phone before beginning this process. Open the app and agree to the Privacy statement. 
Step 2. Select "Restore from Backup."
Step 3. Sign in with your Microsoft account with the cloud backup.
| Note: This will not always be your NCCU address depending on how the authenticator application was first installed and configured. |
Step 4. Next, on your computer visit https://myaccount.microsoft.com.
Step 5. Enter your NCCU account format of “example@ad.nccu.edu”
Step 6. You will be prompted to authenticate, select "I can't use my Microsoft Authenticator app right now"
Step 7. Other available options for authentication will be present, select "Text" or "Call" and complete the verification.
| Important: If no available options are present or your phone has changed you will need to contact the IT Helpdesk by calling 919-530-7676 to receive assistance with verification. Please note additional verification will be required |
Step 4. From the Security info window, select "UPDATE INFO."
Step 5. Select "Change" on the Default sign in method to another method in case Microsoft Authenticator is your default.
Step 6. Delete any present Microsoft Authenticator Method present on your account.
Step 7. Next, select "Add sign-in method."
Step 8. Select "Microsoft Authenticator."
Step 9. Select "Next" on the Start by getting the app.
Step 10. Select "Next" on Setup your account.
Step 11. You will now be shown a QR code on your computer screen.
Using your phone, open the Microsoft Authenticator app and select the NCCU account to scan QR code. Select "Next."
Setup on phone is complete!!
Step 12. From your computer select "Change" on the Default sign-in method to revert back to Authenticator.
Step 13. From the drop down selection choose "App based authentication - notification"
Step 14. Select your initials at the top right corner and select "Sign out."
