Office 365: Setting up Multi-Factor Authentication and Password Reset

Introduction

This article gives you step-by-step instructions for setting up and using Office 365 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR).

Office 365 MFA adds an extra layer of security to your account. Once set up, you will be required to provide two authentication factors, one is your password, the second is based on an one-time code.

For background information what Office 365 Multi-Factor Authentication is and how it works read Office 365 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

Securing your Account with Office 365 MFA

The default second authentication methods are the Microsoft Authenticator app and text messaging (SMS). You will be linking the Microsoft Authenticator app to your RIC Office 365 account and registering your mobile phone number for text or call verification.

The next table shows the available authentication methods for MFA and SSPR.

IMPORTANT: To secure your Office 365 RIC account with MFA, you must complete the registration within 14 days. These steps can be completed at any time within the 14 days; however, they must be completed during a single session.

Approximate time to complete steps: 5 – 10 minutes

What is needed to do the setup:

• Access to a desktop or laptop 
• Mobile phone protected with Passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition (iPhone or Android)
• Internet Access
• Microsoft Authenticator app (recommended)

Steps to Register Office 365 account with MFA:

1. Install Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile phone
2. Log on to your Office 365 account from the desktop or laptop 
3. Setup Authentication Method 1: Authenticator App
4. Setup Authentication Method 2: Register mobile phone
5. Backup the Authenticator app

Instructions to setup Office 365 MFA:

• Office 365: Registering for MFA using an iPhone (Apple iOS 12 or higher)
• Office 365: Registering for MFA using an Android Phone

IMPORTANT: Only after you have completed the setup of Office 365 MFA your account can/will be enabled for MFA. This can take up to 3 days. Once enabled you will be prompted for a second authentication factor. Be sure to have your Microsoft Authenticator app within reach.

Managing your Password with Office 365 SSPR

Resetting or changing the password of your RIC Account can now be done via Office 365. Once changed, the password can be used immediately.

You can manage your password from a desktop/laptop or your mobile device.

What is needed to manage your Password:

• Access to a desktop/laptop or Mobile device (iPhone/iOS or Android)
• Internet Access
• Completed setup of Office 365 MFA 

Instructions to Manage your password with Office 365:

Setting your Password