Topics Map > Client Services
Okta - Initial Setup for Two-Factor Authentication
📧 First-Time Account Activation
Just received an activation email from Okta? Your NetID is ready! Follow these steps to activate your UWL account and set up two-factor authentication. The entire process takes about 3–5 minutes.
- Step 1: Check your email for an activation link from Okta (check spam if not in inbox)
- Step 2: Download Okta Verify on your smartphone before clicking the activation link:
- Step 3: Click the activation link in your email (must be done from a computer or laptop for initial setup)
- Step 4: Create your password when prompted
- Use a strong, unique password
- Include uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters
- Minimum 14 characters (14+ recommended)
- Step 5: Set up multifactor authentication
- When prompted for MFA method, choose Okta Verify
- Open the Okta Verify app on your phone
- Tap "Add Account"
- Scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen
- If asked for an organization, enter: myapps.uwlax.edu
- Step 6: Approve the test notification to verify your setup
- Step 7: You're all set! You can now access UWL systems securely
💡 Pro Tip: Set up Okta Verify on your phone first, then add other devices (laptop, tablet) as backups later.
⚠️ Important: Per FERPA regulations, you must complete account activation yourself—parents or guardians cannot complete this step on your behalf.
Why Two-Factor Authentication?
🔒 Enhanced Security for Your Account
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring both:
- Something you know: Your password
- Something you have: Verification from your trusted device
This protects your personal information and university data even if someone obtains your password through phishing or data breaches.
📱 Best Practices
- Have at least two devices enrolled (phone, laptop, iPad, etc.) for backup access
- Keep your devices secure with passcodes/biometrics
- Update your contact info if you change phone numbers
- Never share your verification codes with anyone, including IT staff
📱 Getting a New Phone?
Before switching devices: You must remove your old device from Okta to avoid being locked out of your accounts.
📖 See our guide: Okta - Authenticator Removal Before Getting a New Phone
Already switched and don't have your old phone? Contact the Eagle Help Desk immediately for assistance resetting your authentication.
Choose Your Device Type for Detailed Setup
Select your device below for specific step-by-step instructions:
📱 Personal iPhone/iPad Setup
- Download Okta Verify from the App Store using the button above
- Open Okta Verify on your iPhone or iPad
- Tap "Add Account" at the bottom of the screen
- Choose "Organization" from the options presented
- When prompted "Do you have a QR code?", tap "No, Sign In Instead"
- Enter your organization: myapps.uwlax.edu
- Sign in using your UWL NetID and the password you just created
- Allow notifications when prompted (required for push authentication)
- Approve the test notification to complete setup
- Setup Complete! Your phone is now ready to authenticate
✅ Next Steps: You can now add additional backup devices (laptop, iPad) following the desktop setup guide.
📱 Personal Android Device Setup
- Download Okta Verify from the Google Play Store using the button above
- Open Okta Verify on your Android device
- Tap "Add Account" at the bottom of the screen
- Choose "Organization" from the options presented
- When prompted "Do you have a QR code?", tap "No, Sign In Instead"
- Enter your organization: myapps.uwlax.edu
- Sign in using your UWL NetID and the password you just created
- Allow notifications when prompted (required for push authentication)
- Grant necessary permissions for biometric authentication (optional but recommended)
- Approve the test notification to complete setup
- Setup Complete! Your phone is now ready to authenticate
✅ Next Steps: You can now add additional backup devices (laptop, tablet) following the desktop setup guide.
💻 Personal Laptop or Desktop Setup
For detailed instructions on setting up Okta Verify on your Windows or Mac computer, please visit our comprehensive desktop setup guide:
Note: Desktop setup should be done after you've enrolled your primary mobile device, as you'll need that device to verify adding your computer.
🏢 University-Issued iPhone/iPad Setup
ℹ️ Note: This process is for devices managed by UWL ITS through mobile device management (MDM).
- Open Self Service app on your university-issued iOS device
- Self Service is pre-installed on managed devices
- Sign in to Self Service using your university credentials
- Find and install Okta Verify from the available applications list
- Open Okta Verify after installation completes
- The app will automatically configure with university settings
- Sign in when prompted using your NetID and password
- Approve the test notification to verify setup
- Setup Complete! Your university device is now enrolled
⚠️ Managed Device Reminder: University-owned devices have specific policies and restrictions. Contact ITS if you experience any issues.
🆘 Need Help?
Our Eagle Help Desk team is here to assist you with any questions or issues during setup.
Phone: 608.785.8774
Email: helpdesk@uwlax.edu
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:45 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CT
Location: Centennial Hall, Room 21