Security Keys

Security Key Quick Setup Guide (Windows):

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What are Security Keys?

Security keys are a convenient alternative to using your cell phone, office phone, or email to handle the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) system currently being used by the university. These easy-to-use keys help get you logged into your computer, provide fast access to websites and applications, and are more secure than other modes of authentication. Security keys help to protect against account takeovers, online attacks, and phishing attempts.

Setting up a Security Key

To set up a security key for MFA use, please see the instructions for your operating system shown below.

Windows Setup Instructions

1. Go to My Sign-Ins and sign-in with the account you wish to set up the trust key with.
2. Once you log in make sure you are on the Security info tab on the left side.
3. Now press add a new sign-in method in the center of the screen.
4. From the drop-down box select Security key then press ass, then next.
5. You may be asked to sign-in again.
6. After the sign-in pick USB device.
7. Press next and it will tell you to be ready. Press the next again and wait for the next pop up. 
8. When prompted, touch the gold circle on the key.
9. Follow the steps to set up a Pin, name the key, then test the sign-in.
10. After that you have added the key as an MFA method.

Security Keys User Guide

Below you will find steps on how to perform common tasks with your security key once it has been set up.

How do I change my security key’s PIN/Password?

To change your security key’s PIN or password:

1. Open the settings app of any Windows PC.
2. Click the Accounts box.
3. Go to Sign-in Options on the left-hand bar.
4. Click Security Key and go to Manage.
5. You will be asked to touch your security key. When done, you will be presented with the option to change your key’s PIN or password. Click Change and enter your new PIN or password.

How do I set MFA to use my key by default?

To change your default MFA method to your security key, first go to My Sign-Ins

1. From the Security Info tab, locate the current default sign-in method above the device list
2. Make sure that your default sign-in method says Authenticator app or hardware token – code.
3. Leave the site and sign-in to a program that requires MFA.
4. If asked to enter a code, click Sign-in another way
5. Click Use a security key
6. Enter your security key’s PIN and touch the key when prompted
7. Your security key is now the default MFA method

How do I remove a key from MFA?

1. To remove a key from MFA, go to My Sign-Ins. 
2. From the Security Info Screen, locate your security key in the device list.
3. Click Delete.
4. You will be redirected to a sign-in screen. Sign-in again, then click Delete once more.
5. Click OK and your key will be deleted.

Can I use my security key when not in the US?

Your security key will remain functional outside the US. As long as you have an internet connection, your key will continue to work as normal.

How do I register my security key with Azure AD?

For information on how to register a security key on Azure AD, see Microsoft’s “Enable passwordless authentication method” section of their article on the topic.

How do I remove my security key from Azure AD?

For information on removing a key from Azure AD, see Microsoft’s “Disable a key”section of their article on the topic.