SDSU Implements Multi-Factor Authentication
Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) will be required for faculty, staff and students beginning on March 5.
In an effort to enhance account security for faculty, staff and students, San Diego State University is implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to access Google G Suite, which includes access to Gmail, Google Drive, Google Calendar, and various other Google applications.
Multi-Factor Authentication is an additional layer of verification used to enhance account security, requiring two types of authentication to protect against unauthorized users accessing SDSU accounts. The added verification is achieved through various supported devices, including smartphones, cell phones without smartphone capabilities, landlines, tablets or physical hardware tokens that can authenticate user identity before access is granted.
“Multi-Factor Authentication, combined with reliable cybersecurity practices and user awareness, help to mitigate risk and provide protection for the personal data of faculty, staff, students and critical SDSU information technology systems,” said Jerry Sheehan, Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer. “We believe this is an essential step in safeguarding the university’s data, especially in a virtual learning environment.”
RELATED: Step-by-step instructions to enroll in Duo Multi-Factor Authentication
The service will be provided to campus by Duo Security (Duo MFA), which is currently working with all California State University campuses.
On March 5, faculty, staff, and students will be required to use Duo MFA to access Google G Suite. After logging into Google with your SDSUid and password, Duo will prompt you to use a supported device to verify your identity.
The use of Duo MFA adds a new step to the Google login process. After logging into Google with your SDSUid and password, Duo will prompt you to use a supported device to verify your identity.
In alignment with the university’s new five-year strategic plan, "We Rise We Defy: Transcending Borders, Transforming Lives," the university is committed to utilizing its resources to cultivate an infrastructure that facilitates a student-centered and life-long educational journey, supported by every member of the SDSU community.
Faculty, staff, and students can start using Duo MFA immediately by completing the Duo MFA Enrollment. Learn more by visiting the Getting Started with Duo webpage.
Faculty and staff can also get support for Duo by submitting a request through the SDSU Service Portal.
For students looking for assistance with using Duo, please contact the Library Computing Hub Help Desk by phone at 619-594-3189, email at [email protected], or chat at library.sdsu.edu/askhub. Computing Hub staff will create a ticket for the student and assign it to the IT Division.
