What is MFA?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a second layer of security to your login process; in addition to your password, a second factor such as the Okta app on a smartphone, a text message, phone call or portable key will be used to verify your identity.
What is Okta?
Okta is the cloud based single sign-on (SSO) provider that Colby uses.
What is SSO?
Single sign-on (SSO) is a process that allows non-Colby services, like Google Suite and Adobe, to authenticate users via their Colby account without sharing the Colby username and password with that service.
How do I enroll in MFA?
You can enroll in multi-factor authentication (MFA) by following the steps in the following knowledge base article here.
What should be my primary method of MFA?
The Okta Verify app is recommended to be your primary method of MFA - its the easiest to use as it supports ‘push’ technology – your phone will ask if you are signing on and you only need to acknowledge it – no typing required. If something isn’t working right with the app, having your cell phone number as a backup method assures that you can still obtain a one-time code that will be used in authentication.
What is Okta FastPass?
Okta FastPass is a passwordless authentication method provided by Okta. It allows you to sign in securely without the need of typing a password making the sign in process faster, easier and more resistant to exposing your passwords to suspicious sites. For more information about Okta FastPass please see the following knowledge base article here
What if I lose my MFA factor(s)?
ITS strongly recommends configuring more than one factor, such as the Okta Verify app plus a text message (SMS) number plus a phone number.
If you lose your or do not have access to all of your factors you can contact the ITS Support Center at 207-859-4222 and we can assist you in getting access to your account and configuring new factors.
How often will I have to use MFA?
Different non-Colby services, like G-Suite and Adobe, have different re-authentication times. Some services may only ask you to provide your multi-factor authentication (MFA) once every few weeks, whereas others may ask you to provide your MFA every few hours. ITS recommends that you keep your multi-factor authentication method(s) with you at all times to accommodate for every scenario.
I need options - can I receive a second factor in more ways than one?
Yes. ITS strongly recommends configuring several methods of MFA – Okta Verify (or other authenticator apps), text message, and phone call are all recommended options. Having options is not only convenient, it provides an alternate means of retrieving a code should one method not be available.
Does the Okta Verify app require a cellular data or Wifi connection?
The Okta Verify app, when configured on a mobile device, will continue to provide numeric multi-factor codes without a data connection or while the device is in airplane or offline mode. When prompted by your Okta logon, simply enter the 6-digit code shown in the app.
The 6-digit codes will refresh/update ever 30 seconds, the bar at the top of the application is a visual representation of the timer.
Push notification functionality in the Verify app do require a network connection.
What if I can’t get my MFA code (I don’t have my phone or any other method)?
The ITS Support Center (support@colby.edu or 207-859-4222) can assist in accessing the account and resetting factors.