How to Set Up Multifactor Authentication

Many security teams that once used single-factor authentication have switched to two-factor authentication (2FA) or multifactor authentication (MFA) to ensure the highest level of protection. The difference between 2FA and MFA is simple — 2FA uses two security factors to verify a user’s identity while MFA involves multiple components. A few examples of these factors include passwords, answers to security questions, fingerprint scanning, and voice recognition.

Office 365 two-factor authentication

Because Microsoft ties many of its products together under the same umbrella, services like Outlook, OneDrive, SharePoint, and Office 365 can all use the same account. Although these programs offer multiple login methods, you can still choose to set up two-step authentication.

First, sign in to your Microsoft account. In the top navigation bar, click on “Security,” then choose “Advanced security options.” Once there, you’ll see a link labeled “Add a new way to sign in or verify.”

You can enter various information in this area to produce a code, such as email addresses and phone numbers. You can also choose to “Enter a code from an authenticator app.” Under that section, you’ll see options for a “Passwordless account” and “Two-Step Verification.”

Enable multifactor authentication for Office 365

If you’re looking to set up multifactor authentication for a group, you need to be the tenant Admin. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Admin Center in Office 365. Go to “Users,” then select “Active Users.”
2. Open “Multifactor authentication.”
3. Open the “Service” settings.
4. Set up MFA for Office 365. Make sure to select “Do not allow user to create App password,” as this feature is only helpful for apps that don’t support multifactor authentication.
5. Enable MFA for Office 365 users. After you save the settings, you’ll see the list of your user group. This area allows you to select single or multiple users to enable MFA.

You can easily change your preferences or manage your connected smartphones through their Office 365 account pages. For additional information, consult the Microsoft 365 multifactor authentication user guide.

Google two-factor authentication

The easiest option for Google two-step authentication is using Google Prompt. This program gives you information about your device, location, and log-in time to confirm your identity. If you didn’t sign in at a given time, you can respond “No” to the prompt notification about the sign-in.

The process involves adding your smartphone to your account, downloading the Google search app on your phone, and acknowledging that you are the one signing in. Once set up, visit your Google account security settings to switch to an authenticator app. The Google Authenticator app will generate verification codes every time you log in to keep your account safe.

Connect with the Agio team today

If you’re looking to learn more about multifactor authentication or considering a new information technology solution for your business, the team at Agio can help. Call us at 877-780-2446 or contact us online today to learn more.