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Okta - FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is Okta?
Okta can do many things. The one we use it for is a direct replacement of Duo multi-factor authentication.
Why are we switching to Okta during the semester?
The largest number of people using the system are available to test Okta and setup their account from October 2-30. The registration and testing period with everyone at UWL helps ensure Okta works as expected before it replaces Duo on October 31.
Why should I have more than one Security Method (Okta Device)?
One-time emailed or texted pass codes are not supported in Okta.
ITS recommends to have at least two security methods (devices) added to your account to help avoid account access issues after business hours (see Eagle Help Desk).
Who should I contact for assistance?
Please call or stop by the Eagle Help Desk in Wing 0103.
How do I set up my account for Okta?
Okta will be available for set up October 2-30.
October 31 Okta will replace Duo, Duo will still be used until Oct 31.
Important:
ITS recommends to have at least two security methods (devices) added to your account; you may add as many as you like. Adding your phone number to Okta is NOT a security method as texting (SMS) is not an available option.
One-time emailed or texted pass codes are not supported in Okta.
In a browser on a computer, go to https://myapps.uwlax.edu.
Enter your NetId or Email, Next.
Enter Password, Verify
Set up
NOTE: If you plan to use a YubiKey you must set up Okta Verify on a device first. No SmartPhone? See Okta Verify App Set Up (Windows or macOS)
On a Laptop or Desktop (Recommended)
Install the Okta Verify App
Okta Verify App Setup (Android)
Okta Verify App Setup (Windows and macOS)
Setup
Enter your phone number, Receive a Code via SMS.
Enter code you received via SMS, Verify
If you receive the option to setup other items (such as listed below) it is recommended to do so.
On a Phone
Text me a setup link, Next
Enter Phone number, Send me the setup link
Check your text messages
Install the Okta Verify App
Where do I get the Okta Verify App?
What is Okta Verify (FastPass)?
Okta Verify (FastPass) is a setting within the Okta Verify App. Once setup, the Okta Verify app will automatically prompt you when signing into an Okta protected app and choosing "Use Okta FastPass." This means you will not need to use another Security Method (Push Notification or a YubiKey) to approve the request.
How do I disable biometrics on Android?
See the Disable Biometrics section of Okta - Okta Verify App Setup (Android)
What can be used as a security method (verification device)?
Okta Verify App (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS)
YubiKeys (USB-C w/NFC, USB-A w/NFC, and Lightning) - Works with Windows, macOS, iOS, Chrome OS, Linux, leading web browsers, and hundreds of services.
TouchID (macOS)
How do I set up additional devices (Security Methods Management)?
Setting up Okta Verify for Windows or Mac?
See Okta - Okta Verify App Setup (FastPass for Windows & macOS)
For all other Security Methods, see below:
In a browser on a computer, go to https://myapps.uwlax.edu.
Enter your NetId or Email, Password then choose Next.
Click your Name, Settings
By the Security Method you would like, Set up or Set up another. If you are looking to remove a device, Remove.
Enter Password, Verify
Approve the two factor request and follow the appropriate steps below:
Okta Verify Setup Instructions
Security Key (YubiKey) or Biometric Authenticator (macOS or iOS)
Set up
Set up
Use Touch ID or Other Options if using a YubiKey
If setting up a YubiKey, choose Security Key, Continue
Device and Yubikey have NFC? Place Yubikey near device (top of device typically)
Otherwise: Insert YubiKey, gently press the gold surface
Done, the device has been added to your account!
Please Note: macOS and iOS do not require you setup a PIN for a Yubikey. Windows will require you to setup a PIN the first time you connect a YubiKey and authenticate with it. Once a PIN is set you will be prompted every time you authenticate using the YubiKey on any device. Need to change your PIN? see Okta - Yubikey PIN (Change or Reset)
Security Key (YubiKey) or Biometric Authenticator (Windows)
Set up
Set up
OK
OK
Windows Hello or external security key
Insert the YubiKey
Enter the desired PIN, Verify the PIN, OK. The PIN entered here will be required anytime you authenticate with the YubiKey.
Gently press the gold surface
Done, the device has been added to your account!
Need to change your PIN? see Okta - Yubikey PIN (Change or Reset)
How many security methods (verification devices) can I have?
ITS recommends to have at least two security methods (verification devices) added to your account; you may add as many as you like. Adding your phone number to Okta is NOT a security method as texting (SMS) is not an available option.
One-time emailed or texted pass codes are not supported in Okta.
I don't have access to any of my security methods, can I get a one-time pass code?
One-time emailed or texted pass codes are not supported in Okta; please contact the Eagle Help Desk.
ITS recommends to have at least two security methods (devices) added to your account to avoid account access issues after business hours.
How do I get a YubiKey (physical security key)?
UWL Faculty and Staff
Students
- Recommended: USB-C w/NFC (hold near top of most smart phones to authenticate) - Yubico Yubikey C NFC Blister Security Key
- USB-A w/NFC (hold near top of most smart phones to authenticate) - Yubico Yubikey NFC USB-A Standard Blister Security Key
- Lightning and USB-C - Yubico Yubikey 5Ci Standard Blister Security Key
How do I set up a YubiKey?
NOTE: If you plan to use a YubiKey you must set up Okta Verify on a device first. No SmartPhone? See Okta Verify App Set Up (Windows or macOS)
Okta - Set Up Additional Devices (Security Methods Management)
What if I need a YubiKey with USB-A, USB-C and Lightning?
ITS recommends using the Okta Verify app when possible.
USB-C is the most widely used connection type; USB-A and Lightning connections are slowly being phased out by manufacturers. If you need multiple connection types you may need multiple YubiKeys, keep in mind the USB-C and USB-A YubiKeys recommended by ITS have NFC (Near Field Communication) built into them. This means you may use them to authenticate with devices that support this feature (most smartphones).
See "How do I get a YubiKey (physical security key)?" on this page.
YubiKeys are the only security method right for me, how can I set them up?
The Okta Verify app will need to be setup for your account before YubiKeys can be added. Once the YubiKeys have been added then the Okta Verify App can be removed from your account.
If you do not have access to a device where Okta Verify can be setup with your account please visit the Eagle Help Desk for assistance.
How do I change or reset the PIN on my YubiKey?
Install YubiKey Manager from https://www.yubico.com/support/download/yubikey-manager/
Insert the YubiKey then open YubiKey Manager, click Applications > FIDO2
On Windows and getting "Failed connecting to the YubiKey" message?
Then close the app, right click YubiKey Manager and choose Run as Administrator
Change PIN
Change PIN
Update the PIN then click Change PIN
Reset PIN
Reset FIDO
Read the prompt, Yes
Make sure to follow the steps in Okta - Set Up Multiple Devices (Security Methods Management) to remove the old Security Method of the YubiKey before you add it again.
I don't have a smartphone, what are my options?
Consider purchasing a Yubikey, once you have it follow Okta - Okta Verify App Setup (Windows & macOS) then Okta - Set Up Additional Devices (Security Methods Management)
See also the question in this FAQ "YubiKeys are the only security method right for me, how can I set them up?