What is two-factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring two methods (also referred to as factors) to verify your identity. The two factors include something you know - like a username and password - plus something you have - like a smartphone app - to approve authentication requests. WMU has joined the many universities that use 2FA to protect students, faculty, and staff from data and privacy breaches.
Add an extra layer of security
Enter your BroncoNetID and password, then approve the login on your mobile device.
Keep the bad guys out
Even if someone else gets your password, it won’t be enough to sign in to your account.
Activate 2FA Now
Please follow all three steps to fully activate 2FA for your account. Although you may use 2FA for the VPN, that does not mean that 2FA is activated for all WMU Login services.
Step 1: Choose your 2FA device
First, select the mobile device you will use as a second factor when logging in:
Smartphone or tablet (recommended)
For the best 2FA experience, we recommend using the Duo Mobile app by Duo Security on your smartphone or tablet. The Duo Mobile app allows you to authenticate quickly and easily by responding to a push notification sent to your device or by using a code generated by the app. You can even use the app to approve a 2FA request if your device is offline. This is the recommended second-factor authentication method for everyone at WMU. If you have a smartphone or tablet, proceed to Step 2 and follow the instructions titled Using a Smartphone with the Duo Mobile app or Using a Tablet with the Duo Mobile app depending on your device.
Cell phone with SMS
If you do not have a smartphone or tablet but have a cell phone that can receive text messages, you can still set up 2FA. Proceed to Step 2, and then follow the instructions titled Using a Cell Phone with SMS. Once activation is complete, you can then request Duo passcodes via text message.
No compatible device?
If you do not own a compatible smartphone, cell phone, or tablet, please visit our alternative 2FA methods page to see what other options are available before continuing.
Step 2: Activate 2FA and register your device
Next, it's time to activate 2FA on your account and register your device to use as a second factor when logging in:
- Download and install the Duo Mobile app for your iOS/iPadOS or Android device and then return to these instructions when finished:
- Click the Activate 2FA button below and sign in using your Bronco NetID and password.
Activate 2FA - Click Activate Now.
- Click Start setup to begin device registration.
- Choose Mobile Phone when asked which type of device you are adding and click Continue.
- Enter your 2FA device phone number. Ensure the selected country matches the issuing country of that phone number. Click Continue.
- Choose your specific device type and click Continue.
- Select I have Duo Mobile Installed.
- The following step will depend on your device type:
- If you are on a computer, a barcode will be displayed. Open the Duo Mobile app on your smartphone, tap the + button and then scan the barcode on the screen using your camera.
- If you are on your smartphone, tap Take me to Duo Mobile.
- The Continue button is clickable after your account has been successfully added to Duo. Your device is now registered for 2FA. You may now review and configure optional settings within Duo.
- Click Continue to login and proceed to the Duo Prompt. Your device is ready to approve two-factor authentication requests. Click Send me a Push to give it a try. All you need to do is tap Approve on the Duo login request received on your device.
Learn more about how to log in with 2FA using the Duo Mobile app
- Download and install the Duo Mobile app for your iOS/iPadOS or Android device and then return to these instructions when finished:
- Click the Activate 2FA button below and sign in using your Bronco NetID and password.
Activate 2FA - Click Activate Now.
- Click Start setup to begin device registration.
- Choose Tablet when asked which type of device you are adding and click Continue.
- Choose your specific device type and click Continue.
- Select I have Duo Mobile Installed.
- The following step will depend on your device type:
- If you are on a computer, a barcode will be displayed. Open the Duo Mobile app on your tablet, tap the + button and then scan the barcode on the screen using your camera.
- If you are on your tablet, tap Take me to Duo Mobile.
- The Continue button is clickable after your account has been successfully added to Duo. Your device is now registered for 2FA. You may now review and configure optional settings within Duo.
- Click Continue to login and proceed to the Duo Prompt. Your device is ready to approve two-factor authentication requests. Click Send me a Push to give it a try. All you need to do is tap Approve on the Duo login request received on your device.
Learn more about how to log in with 2FA using the Duo Mobile app
- Click the Activate 2FA button below and sign in using your Bronco NetID and password.
Activate 2FA - Click Activate Now.
- Click Start setup to begin device registration.
- Choose Mobile Phone when asked which type of device you are adding and click Continue.
- Enter your 2FA device phone number. Ensure the selected country matches the issuing country of that phone number. Click Continue.
- Choose Other (and cell phones) and then click Continue.
- Configure Device Options (optional): Click the When I log in: drop-down and change the setting to Ask me to choose an authentication and click Save.
- Click Continue to login and proceed to the Duo Prompt. Your device is ready to approve two-factor authentication requests. Click Text me new codes, enter the first passcode in the SMS you received and click Log In.
Learn more about how to log in with 2FA using text messages
Step 3: Review Best Practices & Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use 2FA every time I log in? What if my 2FA device is not available? Once you have finished activation, please review our best practices and FAQ pages to ensure your 2FA experience is simple and seamless.