2SV: How do I set up 2-Step Verification (2SV)?

security M365 MFA 2SV

Important Note: Microsoft has decided to block users of "jailbroken" or "rooted" mobile devices from using their 2SV services. If you are using an affected device for VIU 2SV, please click on the link below:
https://ithelp.viu.ca/TDClient/169/ITPortal/KB/Article/14604/2SV-Microsoft-Authenticator-App-and-Jailbroken-iOS-Android-Devices

Set up the verification method of your choice

All VIU students and employees will need to have 2SV set up on their computer account for remote access to Secure VIU resources by following one the Options below.

Students and employees who are ON CAMPUS and either using VIU-Secure wifi, or are connected to a WIRED NETWORK will not be prompted for Secondary Verification. As long as you are logged in with your VIU account credentials, you will not have to enter another code to access secure resources.

Option 1 - Use the Microsoft Authenticator App (Recommended)

On your computer, open the Additional security verification page.
You may be asked to log in. Choose "Work or School Account" if given a choice, then enter your @viu.ca email address and click Next
Enter your VIU account password and click Sign in
Click Next on the More information is required screen.
On your smart phone: Download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smart phone from the Google Play or iOS App Store. Do not sign in to it yet.
- If you already use the Microsoft Authenticator App for another company, you can add another ID. Click on this link to download step by step instructions.
On your computer: Once you have the Microsoft Authenticator app installed, click Next to continue
Follow the prompts on the screen.

If you want more detailed instructions for how to install the Microsoft Authenticator App, please click to download a PDF with step by step instructions and screen captures.

NOTE: The Microsoft Authenticator App for Android requires Android 8.0 or higher. iPhones require iOS 17 and up.
If your phone is not able to update to a current OS, you can still use it with Option 2 - receive a text or phone call.

NOTE: Once the Microsoft Authenticator app is setup and enabled you may be prompted for a pin number - this is the same pin that you unlock your phone with.

Option 2 - Receive a text or phone call (Method will be discontinued by Microsoft in February 2027)

⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTICE: Microsoft will be discontinuing this method as of February 2027. If you set up the text or call method, you will be required to set up an alternate method come February. We recommend setting up an alternate method now.

On your computer, open the Additional security verification page.
You may be asked to log in.
You may be asked to log in. Choose "Work or School Account" if given a choice, then enter your @viu.ca email address and click Next
Enter your VIU account password and click Sign in
Click Next on the More information is required screen.
Click I want to set up a different method
Choose Phone, then click Confirm
Follow the prompts on the screen.

Option 3 - Use a Hardware token (employees only)

What is a 2SV hardware token and why would I use it?

If you don't have a cell phone number, or prefer not to use the app, you can request a hardware token with a digital display or audio readout. A hardware token is a small device that displays the 6-digit codes as your 'second step' for logging into 2SV. Hardware tokens are recommended for those who don't have a cell phone number, or prefer not to use the Microsoft Authenticator app. Hardware tokens are provided for free to current faculty and staff who have active appointments.

Report lost or stolen hardware tokens to IT Services.

If you no longer need, or want to use, your hardware token, you can return it IT Services.

Click to request a hardware token

If you have already received your hardware token, you will need to activate it and link it to your VIU employee computer account. The steps outlined at this link will walk you through this process.

Option 4 - Passkeys (COMING SOON)

Starting sometime in the Fall 2026 semester, Microsoft will be enabling the Passkey authentication method. More information will be provided when an exact date for when VIU will be implementing this method is determined.

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2SV: How do I set up 2-Step Verification (2SV)?

Set up the verification method of your choice

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