About
Passwordless authentication methods are more convenient because the complex password is removed from the authentication flow. Instead, you sign in with something you have, and verify with something you are or something you know.
Students at UNW can leverage passwordless authentication with Phone Sign-in on the Microsoft Authenticator app or FIDO2 security keys as shown in this article.
Something you know | Something you have | Something you are |
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When will I need to use my password?
A password may be required on certain systems that have not yet been converted to use passwordless methods. Some examples include:
Registering a device on the UNW Wi-Fi (rx.unwsp.edu)
Printing through Papercut (print.unwsp.edu)
Accessing UNW Windows & Mac computer labs
Accessing virtual machines through VMware Horizon (vws.unwsp.edu)
Accessing Windows virtual machine terminals (located in library & dorms)
Accessing UNW sites that use ADFS (adfs.unwsp.edu)
Accessing library database resources (login.ezproxy.unwsp.edu)
Accessing VoiceThread recording software (unwsp.voicethread.com)
Important security reminders
Never approve a login request you did not initiate.
Always confirm you are at a UNW login page before entering a password.
UNW staff will never ask for your account password.
If you suspect your account is compromised, such as repeatedly requesting codes/approval: decline the requests and contact IT immediately.
Microsoft Authenticator
No mobile phone?
You can also use a FIDO2 security key, or an iOS or Android tablet that supports Microsoft Authenticator.
Prerequisites for Phone Sign-in
Install and setup the Microsoft Authenticator app: Getting started with Microsoft Authenticator
Your phone must have a screen lock PIN or biometric (fingerprint or face) enabled to secure the device.
Turn on Phone Sign-in
Open the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Tap your UNW account to view more details.
Choose the option Enable phone sign-in.
Tap Continue to register the device with UNW.
Enter your password, tap Sign in.
Tap Register.
Once the registration completes, tap Continue.
Registering your mobile phone does not allow UNW any control over the device.
The registration records information about the device software version, who it is registered to, and establishes secure information to be used for sign-ins.
First time login process
Enter your username if it is not already populated, choose Next.
If you are prompted for your password, choose Other ways to sign in.
Select the option Approve a request on my Microsoft Authenticator app.
Open the Microsoft Authenticator app to enter the number displayed, then tap Yes.
The passwordless phone sign-in will be used the next time you need to authenticate.
You can always choose an alternative method by clicking Other ways to sign in.
FIDO2 Security Keys
More information coming soon!