What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Traditionally, a single factor of authentication (password) was used to protect accounts. By only using a password to authenticate, it leaves vulnerability for attack. When you require two or more factors of authentication (known as multi-factor authentication), security is increased as this additional factor is not something that is easy for an attacker to obtain or duplicate. Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication works by requiring two or more of the following authentication methods:
- Something you know - typically a password.
- Something you have - such as a trusted device that is not easily duplicated, like a phone or hardware key.
- Something you are - biometrics like a fingerprint or face scan.
Microsoft MFA helps safeguard access to data and applications while maintaining simplicity. It provides additional security by requiring a second method of authentication and delivers strong authentication via a range of easy-to-use authentication methods.
What is Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR)?
Microsoft Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) gives you the ability to change or reset your NEOMED account password, with no administrator or help desk involvement. Additionally, if your account is locked, changing or resetting your password using SSPR also unlocks your account.
How do I setup MFA and SSPR for my NEOMED Account?
- Your NEOMED email account gets enabled for MFA and Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR).
- The next time you use a device to access a Microsoft 365 service or a system authenticating using Microsoft single sign on (i.e. https://portal.office.com), you will be asked for additional information to setup MFA and SSPR.
- You will then setup two (2) methods you would like to use, configuring one at a time.
- After you complete registration, you will be asked if you would like to “Stay signed in?” By selecting “Yes”, you will reduce the amount of MFA prompts you will receive during your session on your current device. If you are using a new device or the system does not recognize your device, you will be prompted for MFA when logging in.
For detailed instructions on how to complete your first-time setup, please refer to the Knowledge Base article Microsoft MFA and SSPR – First Time Setup.
Please note that some of your Windows applications, like Outlook, Skype or Teams, may sync in different orders once you enroll in Microsoft MFA. As a result, you may need to restart or re-launch the application if it does not respond.
How do I use MFA to login?
MFA will be invoked each time you access a Microsoft 365 service or a system authenticating using Microsoft single sign on (i.e. https://portal.office.com). After entering your email and password, you will then be prompted to finish your login with your registered MFA method (i.e. respond to the push notification received on your mobile device, enter the 6-digit code from your hardware token). After completing your MFA method, you will then be logged in to the system you were attempting to access.
How do I use SSPR to reset/change my password or unlock my NEOMED account?
Once you complete your first-time setup (Microsoft MFA and SSPR – First Time Setup), please refer to the Knowledge Base articles to reset or change your password (which will also unlock your account if it is locked):
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