Technology
Adding Additional Verification Methods for Multi-Factor Authentication
Last modified 8/21/2026
It is recommended that you set more than one verification method for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This can be helpful if your initial method of verification is unavailable for any reason or if you are experiencing unforeseen technical difficulties. Setting an additional verification method gives you the option to Sign in Another Way when you're asked to verify/authenticate your login to Microsoft 365 resources. The authenticator app method is the most secure and is therefore recommended as your primary method of multi-factor authentication.
Use the following steps for setting up an additional method of verification for MFA:
- Start by navigating to your MFA Account Portal. If not already signed in, you may be asked to authenticate/verify your login.
- Click the + Add Method option (see Figure 1).
Figure 1: - If your initial choice when you first set up MFA was the Phone Call or Text option and you want to use the Authenticator Application, you will be prompted to complete the setup process to add the Application (see Figure 2). Detailed instructions for setting up the application can be found in the following knowledge article: Setting Up Multi-Factor Authentication using the Mobile App
Figure 2: - If your initial choice when you first set up MFA was the Authenticator Application and you would like to choose a phone call/text option, you will be called at the new number to verify it is you making the change. Make sure to have the new phone with you when making this change (see Figures 3 and 4).
Press the pound key (#) when prompted.
Figure 3:
Figure 4: - Your new verification method is now added to the list of authentication methods in your MFA Account Portal (see Figure 5).
Figure 5:
Videos
View the following videos to learn more about MFA:
What is Multi-Factor Authentication
Using MFA to Log in to Illinois State University
Additional Information
How to Get Help
For questions about MFA, account access issues, MFA resets, or other technical assistance, contact the Technology Support Center at:
- Phone: (309) 438-4357
- Email: SupportCenter@IllinoisState.edu
- Submit a Request via Web Form: Get IT Help Form
- Live Chat: IT Help Live Chat
For in-person support, visit TechZone on the 1st floor of the Bone Student Center.
- Visit their website to see their opening hours, as they vary throughout the semester: TechZone.
Feedback
To suggest an update to this article, ISU students, faculty, and staff should submit an Update Knowledge/Help Article request and all others should use the Get IT Help form.




