Setting Up Multifactor Authentication

Overview

Multifactor Authentication (MFA) is a security feature that adds an extra layer of protection to your AACC account. MFA combines something you know (your password) with something you have (a phone or other device), greatly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

MFA is required for all faculty, staff, and employee student accounts.

New Requirement: Beginning July 7, new credit students are also required to use MFA when accessing MyAACC or Microsoft 365 services.

Employees and students can choose from the following MFA methods:

  • Microsoft Authenticator App (most secure)
  • Phone Call (employees and students)
  • Text Message (students only)
  • Security Key (students only)

Student MFA Setup Instructions

New Credit Students: If your account was created on or after July 7, you are required to use multifactor authentication (MFA) to access MyAACC and Microsoft 365 services (Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, etc.).

Reminder: Microsoft Authenticator is the most secure method. You may also add phone call, text message, or a security key as alternative methods.

The sections below contain step-by-step instructions based on whether or not you provided a phone number when applying to AACC:

✅ I provided a phone number during the application process

If you provided a mobile phone number during your application, it may have been automatically added to your AACC Microsoft account.

In this case, you will not be prompted to set up MFA. Instead, you’ll approve sign-ins using your phone number via:

  • A phone call
  • A text message with a code Select text or call to approve sign in with MFA.

After signing in, we recommend adding Microsoft Authenticator for additional security and convenience.

You can add or update your MFA methods by:

❌ I did not provide a phone number during the application process

If your AACC Microsoft account doesn’t already have a phone number, you will be prompted to set up MFA the first time you log in.

During your first sign-in:

  • You will be prompted to set up Microsoft Authenticator (most secure)
  • To use a phone instead, click "I want to set up a different method" and select phone call or text
  • Once one method is configured, you may add others

MFA Options

You can add or update your MFA methods by:

Tip: Add an alternate authentication method in case you lose access to your device.

Employee MFA Instructions

Employees will be prompted to approve their sign-in when accessing MyAACC or Microsoft 365 services, including Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, Forms, Bookings, and Office apps. MFA is also required for VPN access (FortiClient).

💼 Employee MFA Setup Instructions

  1. Go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup using a computer and web browser (e.g., Firefox, Chrome, Edge).
  2. Enter your employee email address (e.g., rhawk2@aacc.edu).
  3. Enter your password and select Sign in.
  4. Click Next.
  5. Choose your preferred method:
    • Option A – Microsoft Authenticator App (most secure)
      Install the free Microsoft Authenticator App from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
      Once installed, click Next on your computer and follow the on-screen steps to scan the QR code with your mobile device.
      Approve the test notification to complete setup.
    • Option B – Phone Call
      Click I want to set up a different method, then choose Phone.
      Enter your phone number and select Call me.
      Answer the call and follow the instructions to approve the sign-in.

MFA options.

Tip: After setup, consider adding an alternate method (e.g., alternate phone) in case you lose access to your primary device.


Change or Update MFA Methods

After configuring your preferred MFA option, it's a good idea to add an additional phone number, email, or authenticator app, in case you ever lose access to your mobile device. You can add or update your MFA authentication methods at any time:

  • Visit https://aka.ms/mfasetup, or
  • Log into MyAACC > Click Outlook Email in the Email and Microsoft 365 card > Click your profile picture/initials in the top right > Select View account > Click Security info

Additional security verficiation MFA settings

For detailed instructions about updating your MFA device after receiving a new mobile phone, see Configure Microsoft Authenticator on New Phone.

Step-by-Step Instructions for each MFA Method

Click a section below to view step-by-step instructions:

Microsoft Authenticator

Phone Call or Text Message  

Security Key

Troubleshooting

After setting up MFA, follow the steps in this guide to sign in to Microsoft 365 services: Using Multifactor Authentication with Email / Microsoft 365

If you still have questions or need help, contact the Technical Service Desk or request assistance using the Multifactor Authentication service page.

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