Duo Required for Students as of June 2023

As of June 9, 2023, all students are now required to use Duo.

What is Duo?

Duo is UAH’s chosen multi-factor authentication (MFA) solution for Single Sign-On (SSO) systems, including myUAH, Canvas, Banner, and more. See a list of what uses SSO in this article

Employees of UAH have been required to use Duo for a while now, but all students must also be using it by June 9, 2023. OIT is rolling out Duo to students in groups according to the schedule above.

Why must students begin using it?

The change is due to increased cybersecurity requirements aiming to protect student, faculty, and staff information from unauthorized access. 

How is this different from Google 2-Step Verification?

Duo is similar to but separate from Google 2-Step Verification. Both utilize a second factor (commonly a mobile device) to add an extra layer of security to your UAH accounts.

For any SSO systems like Canvas and myUAH, Duo is required. For any Google Workspace products like Gmail and Drive, you will use Google 2-Step. See below for more examples.

Duo

Google 2-Step Verification

  • Gmail
  • Google Drive
  • Google Calendar
  • Google Docs, Slides, Sheets

What should I expect next?

When you log into any SSO system on or after your rollout date, you will be prompted to set up Duo for your UAH account. When setting up your Duo profile, you’ll have the option to select from a variety of multi-factor authentication methods, including "Duo Push" using the Duo Mobile app, texted passcodes, or phone call verification. The Duo Mobile app can also provide you with a valid passcode even if you have no Internet connection. Duo Mobile works with Apple iOS and Google Android; they both support Duo Push, passcodes, and third-party TOTP accounts.

Download Duo Mobile for iOS

Download Duo Mobile for Android

Note that the user interface will appear different whether you're using a UAH-owned or personal computer. Students using a UAH-owned Windows computer will see the traditional Duo prompt. In comparison, students using a personal computer will see the newer Duo Universal Prompt. Read about the difference between the two prompts here. In the coming months, OIT will be switching all users to the Duo Universal Prompt.

How will this change my experience after I set up my account in Duo?

The Single Sign-On login screen will not be changing. After supplying your Charger ID and password, Duo will prompt you to confirm your identity. After completing the multi-factor authentication requirement, you will be logged in. The additional step of providing the second factor is the main change.

Which multi-factor authentication method should I choose?

OIT strongly recommends downloading the Duo Mobile app. This app allows you to use the “Duo Push'' method, which sends a notification to your mobile device that allows you to approve or deny a login request with one tap.

Want more information?

Read more about Duo Security here

See our FAQ for Duo MFA

See our instructions for getting started with Duo for multi-factor authentication

For technical assistance, please contact the UAH OIT Help Desk via one of the below methods:

  • Click here to chat with us.
  • Email helpdesk@uah.edu and provide a detailed description of the problem or question. We respond to email during business hours.
  • Call 256-824-3333 to speak with us. We offer 24/7/365 remote support.