Two-Factor Authentication (Duo)

About Duo Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second layer of security to your online accounts. Verifying your identity using a second factor (like your phone or other mobile device) prevents anyone but you from logging in, even if they know your password. 

The University of Cincinnati uses Duo Security for two-factor authentication

Enroll in Duo

To enroll in Duo install the Duo Mobile App on your iOS or Android device (e.g. smartphone, tablet). Follow the instructions in the Knowledge Base article Duo Two-Factor Authentication Self-Enrollment Guide

Get helpful how-to instructions for Duo in the IT Knowledge Base. We’ve linked directly to many of them below.

Manage Your Duo Account

Duo process image

Duo will push a notification to your phone asking you to approve or deny access each time you enter your UC username and password to login to a university system. Once you verify your identity on your phone with Duo, you’ll be securely logged into the system.

Most university systems require two-factor authentication with Duo to login.

Use the Duo Mobile App

The Office of Information Security (OIS) strongly recommends using the Duo Mobile App on your iOS or Android mobile device. OIS also recommends adding a second device as backup.

New!  Users will no longer be able to use Duo Mobile on Windows Phone to authenticate as of February 3, 2025.

To ensure your Windows Phone users’ uninterrupted ability to authenticate, we recommend allowing additional authentication methods that do not rely on Duo Mobile before February 3, 2025. In addition to providing a seamless authentication experience for Windows Phone users during this end of life, having multiple available authentication methods is a best practice for all users.

Choose "Send Me a Push"

Choose “Send Me a Push” in the Duo Mobile App for the quickest, most user-friendly experience. 

Duo Trusted Devices

Duo will ask you to confirm that the device you’re using is a personal device.

  • Selecting "Yes, this is my device" marks that device as trusted, reducing the number of authentication requests Duo sends to that device or browser.
  • Opt for "No, other people use this device" on public computers or devices that are not yours to prevent unauthorized access to your account.

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