Student Technical Services

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) 

NIC is deploying Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA is considered a cybersecurity best practice and is widely used in colleges and universities worldwide to protect users and information systems. This extra layer of security will significantly increase the protection of student accounts, personal data and NIC’s information systems.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication?

This is a 2-step process to validate the person accessing NIC resources.  An additional layer of protection that is simple to use combines your NIC username/password with something only you have access to like an SMS text, a phone call to a landline, or the Microsoft Authenticator app which can be downloaded to your mobile device from Google Play or Apple Store. MFA is becoming standard practice for institutions including banks, government, and colleges. If your password is compromised, your account will still be secured as the attacker will not have the additional factor required to log in. 

For detailed instructions please see below.

How will MFA work at NIC?

MFA will only be required when accessing NIC services off-campus.

It registers the device (laptop, cell phone) to prevent unauthorized devices from trying to access our network.

When you log in to your NIC account off-campus, you will receive a notification asking you to confirm your log-in through one of the available methods:

• The Microsoft Authenticator mobile app (recommended and easiest method)
• An SMS text message
• An automated voice call to a phone number of your choosing

NIC strongly recommends using the Microsoft Authenticator App as your chosen MFA method for the following reason:

• Allows access to NIC resources, even outside of Canada
• App verification codes can be used even if you do not have internet or data

 

How to Set up Microsoft Multifactor Authentication

1. Click this link https://aka.ms/mfasetup or copy it to your browser

2. Enter your NIC student email address as your Microsoft account and click Next.

3. Enter your student password, then click Sign in

4. Click Next

5. This starts the process of configuring MFA.
   Click on Download now to guide you on downloading and installing the app on your mobile device.
   If you have already installed the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device and are using your mobile device to register MFA, click "Pair your account to the app by clicking this link" and skip to Step 10.
   
   If you have already installed the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device, click Next and skip to Step 6.
    

1. Microsoft Security page will pop up. Click Install the App
   

2. QR codes for Android and iPhone cell phones will display.  Use your cell phone to scan the appropriate code and get the app.

      

3. After the installation, return to the Keep your account secure page and click Next.

6. Click Next again.
   
7. A QR code for MFA setup is prompt. DO NOT CLICK ON ANYTHING yet on this screen.
   Complete steps 8 - 9 on your mobile device before you come back and click Next.
   
8. FOR FIRST TIMER
   Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.  Accept the privacy, click continue,

and select “Scan QR Code.”

Or open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device, Tap ‘+,’ choose ‘Work or school account,’ and select ‘Scan QR Code.’

           

9. Scan the code on the computer screen. Click ‘Allow’ on your device to allow the app to send you notifications.
   
10. Your NIC username should be presented on the app. Make sure to return to your browser and click Next at Keep your account secure. A number should be prompted over there.

11. Your authenticator app will now pop up a window and ask you to enter the number shown on the browser. Enter the number shown on the text bar, then click Yes.

12. The Authenticator app is now configured. Click Next.
    
13. MFA setup confirms you have successfully set up your info.  Click Done.
    
14. Your sign-in method lists under security info.
    

Add an alternate method

Access your NIC myAccount here https://myaccount.microsoft.com/ 

1. If you want to add another sign-in method, click ‘+ Add sign-in method.’
   
    
2. Click the drop-down menu and select the method you prefer and click Add. For example, phone.
        
    
3. Choose the country code and enter your phone number. Then, select either Text me a code or Call me
   then click Next.
   
    
4. Enter a 6-digit code you receive and click Next. Or, wait for a phone if you choose Call me.
   
5. After you pick up the call or enter the code successfully, the alternate sign-in method you added is displayed.