Authentication Method Overview
- Ashley Mattingly
- Jim Luther
- A.J. Newman
With the two-factor authentication (2FA) users will be prompted to verify their identity using a second factor that they designate. Depending on the device chosen, they may also select the type of prompt or authentication method they wish to receive. This article covers the types of devices that may be used for this service and the notification options.
Two-Factor Authentication Device Options
The “first factor” in security is your password. “Second factors” are an item in your possession and can be a mobile phone, landline phone, tablet, hardware token, or security key.
Device | Authentication notification options | Platforms supported |
|---|---|---|
Mobile Phones (Smartphones) | Duo Mobile push notification Duo Mobile passcode SMS text message Phone Call | iOS Android |
Mobile Phones (Basic Cell Phones) | SMS text message Phone Call | Mobile phones with SMS text messaging capability Mobile phones with voice calling capability |
Phone Call | All | |
Duo Mobile push notification Dub Mobile passcode | iOS Android | |
Passcode | Please visit Hardware Tokens for the 2FA Service | |
Popup on computer | Please visit USB Security Keys for the 2FA Service | |
Popup on Computer | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android |
Available Authentication Methods
Duo Mobile App: Duo Push (recommended)
Receive a push notification on your device. Enter the number displayed from the login prompt on your device. Internet or cellular access is required to use this method.
Available for smartphones and tablets.
Duo Mobile App: Passcode
Go into your Duo Mobile app and tap on the account you are trying to access to get your code. Enter the code into the Duo authentication prompt. The app runs on your device so you do not need cellular or internet access to authenticate.
Available for smartphones, tablets, and hardware tokens.
SMS Text Message
A text message with a seven-digit passcode is sent to your mobile phone. Standard message rates apply.
Available for mobile phones. Most international calling codes are supported.
Phone Call
Receive an automated phone call. Press any key to authenticate.
Available for smartphones, mobile phones, and landlines. Most international calling codes are supported.
Hardware Token
Hardware tokens are small devices that generate passcodes to verify your identity in place of a phone. The device will rotate the displayed passcode every few minutes to provide you with a new valid code to use. The battery on this device is rated for a minimum of 2 years.
Learn more: Hardware Tokens for the 2FA Service
USB Security Keys
Security Keys plug into your computer and act as a physical “key” into your accounts.
Learn more: USB Security Keys for the 2FA Service
Platform Authentication
Registering your computer or tablet for platform authentication in Duo allows you to authenticate Duo prompts directly on the device, without the need to involve your phone in the process.
Learn more: Platform Authenticators for the 2FA Service
For more information about 2FA and Duo, visit guide.duo.com.