Configuring Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication

Issue/Question

How do I configure Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication to access my email account? 

Environment

• TopperMail Accounts
• Retired WKU Faculty/Staff Email Accounts

Cause

All WKU email accounts must use some form of multi-factor authentication. The authentication method for both student TopperMail accounts and retired faculty / staff Exchange accounts require the use of Microsoft's multi-factor process. 

Resolution

1. Go to Office.com.
2. Click Sign in.
3. Type in your WKU email address. 
4. Click Next. 
5. Enter your WKU email address password. 
6. Click Sign in. 
7. On the More information required screen, click Next. 
8. Select how you would like to authenticate. You may authenticate by phone, or by downloading and using the Microsoft Authenticator app on a smartphone or tablet. 
   Note: You will have to have this authentication method with you each time you wish to sign into your email account. If your authentication method is set to use a landline, you must be available to answer that phone when you want to sign into your email account. Additionally, you will need to have your smartphone or tablet with you should you choose to authenticate using the Microsoft Authenticator app.
9. If you would like to authenticate by phone, complete the following steps, if you would like to authenticate using the Microsoft Authenticator app, please go to step 10. 
   1. Select Authentication phone from the dropdown menu. 
   2. Input your country and telephone information. 
   3. Select if you would like to receive a text message, or a phone call. 
   4. Click Next. 
   5. Follow the steps on the screen to complete your registration. 
10. If you would like to authenticate using the mobile app, complete the steps below: 
    1. Select the option for Mobile app authentication.
    2. Select the option to Receive notifications for verification or Use verification code. 
       Note: When using the option to Receive notifications for verification, your phone or tablet will be sent a notification that you must approve to allow login. If selecting the option of Use verification code, the Authenticator app on your phone will automatically create numerical codes that you will have to enter when signing in.
       Note: These codes are time-sensitive and will last no more than 30 seconds at a time. It is recommended to use the option of Receive notifications for verification opposed to using the verification codes. 
    3. Click Set up to configure the mobile app. 
    4. Complete the steps that are presented to you in order to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app. 
11. Once the Multi-Factor Authentication process is complete, you will be able to sign into your email account. 

Please contact the ITS Service Desk should you encounter any problems or have any questions regarding this process.