Okta - Initial Setup for Two-Factor Authentication

Important: Per FERPA regulations, you must complete account activation yourself — parents or guardians cannot complete this step on your behalf.

If you only need to reset your password, see Password Reset Instructions.

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.

1. Check your email for an activation link from Okta. Check your spam folder if you don't see it in your inbox.
2. Download Okta Verify on your smartphone before clicking the activation link:
   • Okta Verify on the Apple App Store (opens in new tab)
   • Okta Verify on the Google Play Store (opens in new tab)
3. Click the activation link in your email. This step must be completed on a computer or laptop.
4. Create your password when prompted:
   • Use a strong, unique password
   • Include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
   • Minimum 14 characters
5. Set up multifactor authentication:
   • When prompted to choose an MFA method, select Okta Verify
   • Open the Okta Verify app on your phone and tap Add Account
   • Scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen
   • If asked for an organization, enter: myapps.uwlax.edu
6. Approve the test notification to verify your setup.
7. You're all set — you can now access UWL systems securely.

Tip: Set up Okta Verify on your phone first, then add other devices (laptop, tablet) as backups later.

Why Two-Factor Authentication?

Enhanced Security for Your Account

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security 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 a data breach.

Best Practices

• Enroll at least two devices (phone, laptop, iPad, etc.) so you have a backup
• Keep your devices secure with passcodes or 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 Okta — Authenticator Removal Before Getting a New Phone.

If you have already switched and no longer have your old phone, contact the Eagle Help Desk immediately for help resetting your authentication.

Choose Your Device Type for Detailed Setup

Select your device below for specific step-by-step instructions:

• Personal iPhone or iPad — iOS setup for your personal Apple device
• Personal Android — Android setup for your personal device
• Personal Desktop or Laptop (opens in new tab) — Windows or Mac computer setup guide
• University-Issued iPhone or iPad — Setup for university-issued iOS devices managed by ITS

Personal iPhone/iPad Setup

Download Okta Verify from the App Store (opens in new tab)

1. Download Okta Verify from the App Store using the link above.
2. Open Okta Verify on your iPhone or iPad.
3. Tap Add Account at the bottom of the screen.
4. Choose Organization from the options presented.
5. When prompted "Do you have a QR code?", tap No, Sign In Instead.
6. Enter your organization: myapps.uwlax.edu
7. Sign in using your UWL NetID and the password you just created.
8. Allow notifications when prompted — this is required for push authentication.
9. Approve the test notification to complete setup.

Your phone is now ready to authenticate. You can add additional backup devices (laptop, iPad) by following the desktop setup guide.

Personal Android Device Setup

Download Okta Verify from Google Play (opens in new tab)

1. Download Okta Verify from the Google Play Store using the link above.
2. Open Okta Verify on your Android device.
3. Tap Add Account at the bottom of the screen.
4. Choose Organization from the options presented.
5. When prompted "Do you have a QR code?", tap No, Sign In Instead.
6. Enter your organization: myapps.uwlax.edu
7. Sign in using your UWL NetID and the password you just created.
8. Allow notifications when prompted — this is required for push authentication.
9. Grant biometric authentication permissions if prompted (optional but recommended).
10. Approve the test notification to complete setup.

Your phone is now ready to authenticate. You can add additional backup devices (laptop, tablet) by following the desktop setup guide.

Personal Laptop or Desktop Setup

For instructions on setting up Okta Verify on your Windows or Mac computer, see the Desktop Setup Guide (opens in new tab).

Note: Complete desktop setup after enrolling your primary mobile device — you will need your phone to verify adding your computer.

University-Issued iPhone/iPad Setup

Note: This process is for devices managed by UWL ITS through mobile device management (MDM).

1. Open the Self Service app on your university-issued iOS device. Self Service is pre-installed on all managed devices.
2. Sign in to Self Service using your university credentials.
3. Find and install Okta Verify from the available applications list.
4. Open Okta Verify after installation completes. The app will automatically configure with university settings.
5. Sign in when prompted using your NetID and password.
6. Approve the test notification to verify setup.

Your university device is now enrolled. University-owned devices have specific policies and restrictions — contact the Eagle Help Desk if you experience any issues.

Need Help?

The Eagle Help Desk team is here to assist with any questions or issues during setup.

• Phone: 608.785.8774
• Email: helpdesk@uwlax.edu
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CT
• Location: Wing Technology Center, Room 103