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:

  1. Start by navigating to your MFA Account Portal. If not already signed in, you may be asked to authenticate/verify your login.
  2. Click the + Add Method option (see Figure 1).

    Figure 1:
    Security Information Image
  3. 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:
    Add a Method Drop Down Menu
  4. 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:
    Phone call method

    Figure 4:
    Phone verification successful message
  5. Your new verification method is now added to the list of authentication methods in your MFA Account Portal (see Figure 5).

    Figure 5:
    New Method of verification added


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:

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

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