MFA - Frequently Asked Questions

Owned by Heather Murch
Last updated: Mar 29, 2023
2 min read

Use this article to review frequently asked questions about Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Please take some time to review the FAQs.

FAQs

Q: What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

A: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a layer of protection to the sign-in process. When accessing accounts or apps, staff provide additional identify verification.

  • Multi-factor authentication requires two or more methods of verification factors for access which are:

    • Knowledge (Passwords, PIN)

    • Place (Physical Location)

    • Time (MS Authenticator)

    • Possession (Security Key)

Q: Why is SSD implementing MFA?

  • As cybersecurity remains a priority for organizations worldwide, school districts are obligated to adopt strategies that protect their staff and students. One of those strategies is multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA is a requirement for SSD to maintain our cybersecurity insurance.

Q: How does MFA work?

A: When attempting to access your email or other Office365 resources from off the campus network, it will require you to enter a verification code after logging in. That code is provided via a text message, phone call, or authenticator app, depending on settings you configure in your account.  

Q: What options do I have for MFA?

A: SSD is offering the following options:

  • Mobile App - Uses the Microsoft Authenticator App (Android, and iOS only) to generate a code or prompt you to confirm verification

  • Phone Call - Calls you at a pre-defined phone number and communicates the code 

  • Text Message - Sends a text message to a pre-defined phone number with the code 

Q: What applications will be affected? 

A: For the current roll-out of MFA, the affected applications are within the Microsoft O365 environment (Outlook, Teams, PowerBI). Staff have already been using MFA to access Lawson.

Q: If I don't use any applications that are within the current scope, do I still need to participate in MFA?  

A: Yes. SSD will be transitioning to the use of MFA with all SSD applications as part of this initiative.

Q: Can I use the authenticator app if I don’t have basic security on my phone?

A: No, you will need to set up basic security (swipe, pin, fingerprint, or facial recognition) to access your phone for the authenticator app to work.

Q: Can I opt out of MFA?

A: No. MFA is a requirement for SSD to maintain our cybersecurity insurance. MFA is a requirement for all SSD employees.