Two-step verification

Two-step verification: the whys and hows

Two-step verification is an extra layer of security when logging in. It does so by doubly checking the identity of the individual attempting to log in. In some cases this is done by verifying your log in attempt on your mobile device.

To gain access to Canvas, Microsoft 365 and other applications, a one-time activation of two-step verification is necessary.

Setting up two-step verification

Take the following steps to set up two-step verification on your mobiles device:

1. Log in to a laptop or tablet and open an incognito browser, or make sure you clear the entire browser history; go to https://aka.ms/mfasetupExternal link.
2. Now use your new UvA mail address and the password you created earlier when creating your UvAnetID.
3. Click 'Next' (or ‘Volgende’) until a QR code appears.
4. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile phone from the App Store or Google Play Store.
5. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app and select ‘Add Account’ (or ‘Account Toevoegen’), then ‘Work or School Account’ (or ‘Werk- of School-account) and finally ‘Scan QR code’.
6. Scan the QR code displayed on your laptop or tablet and click 'Next'.
7. You will receive a sign-in request on your mobile phone. Approve it.
8. Click 'Next' and then 'Done' on your laptop or tablet. 
9. Your two-step verification has now been successfully set up.

Your two-step verification has now successfully been set up. You can always alter the two-step verificationExternal link or add an extra verification method. Additionally, it is possible to use your Apple Watch as a verification methodExternal link.

Verification via phone call

If you’re visually impaired or would just rather avoid downloading apps, you can select the ‘Telephone’ option in the installation wizard. This will verify your identity by calling you and asking you to select the ‘#’ key on your mobile device.

Stuck without signal or an active internet connection? Use the code given by the Authenticator app. Don’t forget to re-register if your have a new mobile device or phone number.

Issues logging into Canvas with Microsoft Authenticator App 

Are you experiencing issues logging into Canvas with the Microsoft Authenticator app? Follow the instructions below to (re)set the Microsoft Authenticator app. Complete each step in the correct order for a successful setup. 

Preparation: Clear your browser history 

1. Clear all browser history and cookies to avoid potential issues during login. 
2. Restart your browser afterward. 

Step 1: Set up Microsoft Authenticator app with call method 

1. Open a new incognito window in your browser and go to https://aka.ms/mfasetupExternal link. 
2. Log in with your UvA email address and password. 
3. Choose the option to be called and follow the instructions to press the # key. 
4. Next, go to Security Info and click the + icon next to "Add Sign-In Method." 
5. Select Authenticator App under Add Method and follow the steps to scan the QR code again and add your account. 
6. A verification message will now be sent to your app; accept the code to confirm that everything is working. 
7. After confirmation, the Microsoft Authenticator app is fully activated. 

Step 2: Set up authenticator app with MFA code

1. Open an incognito window in your browser (click the three dots in the top-right corner > "New Incognito Window"). 
2. Go to https://aka.ms/mfasetupExternal link.
3. Log in with your full UvA email address and password.
4. Click “Next” until a QR code appears on the screen.
5. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) if you haven't already.
6. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone and choose Add Account > Work or School Account > Scan QR Code.
7. Scan the QR code displayed on your laptop, then click Next on your laptop.
8. You will receive a test sign-in request in the app; approve it.
9. On the website, click Next and then Done.

Remote assistance: Splashtop

If you still experience issues after following these steps, you can install Splashtop on your computer for remote assistance from the Service Desk ICT Services. 

1. Download Splashtop from https://sos.splashtop.euExternal link.
2. Follow the installation instructions and contact the Service Desk ICT Services for further support. You can find the contact information for the Service Desk ICT Services at the bottom of this page.

Having problems with verification?

• Not receiving a push notification on your mobile device confirming your log in? Or only receiving notifications when the app is open? Check the app settings on your mobile device and make sure notifications are allowed.
• Is just the Authenticator app unable to send notifications? Log inExternal link, delete the device in question and the corresponding account and add these again.
• Still experiencing difficulties with two-step verification but want to use Microsoft 365? Then request a temporary exemption, valid for four days. Choose Microsoft Cloud as your two-step verification method and log in.
• If your two-step verification doesn't work properly, please go to: https://id.student.uva.nl/, click on 'I want to set up my two-stepverification (MFA)', log in and click on Reset two-step verification for Microsoft Cloud.