Duo - Mobile Passcodes (2FA)


 

This article shows you how to set up Duo passcodes on a smartphone or tablet. While the main benefit of Duo passcodes is that they work offline, you must have an active internet connection for the initial setup.

Before you can use passcodes, you must add your device (smartphone or tablet) to your 2FA account and activate the Duo Mobile app.

You must have the Duo Mobile app installed on your device to begin.

Instructions
These steps begin after you log into the 2FA Portal with your NetID and password.

  1. Select Sign Up for 2FA.
    Note: If you already have devices enrolled, select Manage Your Account instead.
  2. If prompted, log in again and answer any security questions.
  3. Scroll down to the Add a Device section.
  4. Select the device you are adding:
    1. To add a phone:
      1. Select Add a Smartphone.
    2. To add a tablet (or a phone for app-only use):
      1. Select Add a Tablet.
  5. Choose your platform (e.g., iOS, Android) and click Continue.
  6. Enter a name for your device (this will help you find your device later) and click Continue.
  7. A QR code will appear on your computer screen.
  8. Open the Duo Mobile app on your device and scan the code to activate your account.
    1. On your device, tap Continue or Add Account.
    2. Tap Use a QR code and scan the code on your computer.
    3. Tap Save.
  9. Once the process is complete, your device will appear in the My Devices section.
Note: If you cannot scan the QR code (for example, if you are setting up Duo on your phone's browser), click the link on your computer screen to get an activation link by email. Open the email on your device and tap the link to activate the app.

If your device is offline, you cannot use the standard Duo Push.

Follow these steps to log in using a manually entered passcode.

Instructions

  1. Log in to a UA service - the one that you are trying to access - with your NetID and password as usual.
  2. You will be directed to the 2FA authentication page.
  3. The 2FA page may default to your last-used login method (e.g., a Duo Push).
  4. If you are using the passcode method for the first time, you will need to click on Other Options.
    Other Options Menu
  5. Select Duo Mobile passcode.
    Duo Mobile Passcode Option
  6. Open the Duo Mobile app on your device.
  7. Tap your account (or the Refresh Passcode link/button) to generate a new 6-digit code.
  8. Enter this code into the passcode field on your computer and select Verify.