Two-step verification (MFA)

Here's how two-step verification works

Two-step verification is an extra level of security when logging in. With it, an extra check is made to establish the identity of the person logging in with certainty. In some cases, this requires you to verify your login via your cell phone using the Microsoft Authenticator app.

To access Canvas, Microsoft 365 and other applications, activate two-step verification once.

Setting up two-step verification

Note: Follow the full instructions from start to finish, this will ensure that it is set up correctly.

1. Open an 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.
4. Enter your mobile number you want to be called on.
5. Press next.
6. You will now be called, answer the call and press #.
7. On your computer screen you will now see that the call has been answered and the calling method has been set up successfully. Note: you are not done yet, please follow the steps below also to set up your two-step verification correctly.
8. Next, go to Security Details and click the + sign next to 'Add login method'. 
9. Under Add method, choose Authenticator app. 
10. Click Next each time until a QR code appears on the screen.
11. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) if you don't already have it. 
12. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone and choose Add account > Work or school account > Scan QR code. 
13. Scan the QR code on your laptop and then click Next on your laptop. 
14. You will receive a test login request in the app. Approve this. 
15. On the website, click Next, then click Done.
16. Under 'Sign-in method', you will see: 'Sign-in method when the recommended method is not available: Phone - Change notification'.
17. Click 'Change notification' and switch to 'Microsoft Authenticator'.
18. You have now successfully set up the Microsoft Authenticator app.
19. You can now log in to all UvA websites. If you receive a login request while logging in, always choose the Microsoft Authenticator app.

Problems with verifying

1. Are you not getting push notifications on your phone to confirm login? Or are you only getting notifications when the app is already open? Check the app settings on your phone. Make sure notifications are allowed. 
2. Are you getting notifications from other apps? Log in to https://aka.ms/mfasetupExternal link. 
3. Delete the relevant device and account and add it again. 
4. Still unable to set up two-step verification and still want to use Microsoft 365? Then ask for a temporary waiver. This is valid for 4 days. Choose Two-step verification for Microsoft Cloud and log in.  
5. If your two-step verification is still not working correctly, go to https://id.student.uva.nl, choose “I want to set up my Two Step Verification (MFA),” login and choose Set up Two Step Verification again for Microsoft Cloud.