Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by prompting users to verify their identity with an additional method, such as an Authenticator app notification, during sign-in. MFA verifies both something you know (your password) and something you have (an app on your personal device).
Microsoft MFA is required for all Auburn University Alumni and Retiree email accounts to enhance security and protect user information. Microsoft MFA is required to access Microsoft 365 resources, both on and off campus.
Auburn alumni and retirees will need to install and use the Microsoft Authenticator app for MFA authentication, and the app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The Microsoft Authenticator app allows users to approve the email sign-in by entering a one-time code generated by the app. For step-by-step instructions on setting up MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator app, visit aub.ie/mfaappkb.
This article answers frequently asked questions associated with Microsoft MFA and retiree and alumni email at Auburn. For additional information on Microsoft MFA, please see the MFA Overview Knowledge Base Article.
Microsoft MFA: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I have an Auburn alumni email account?
- If you graduated from Auburn University after 2010, you are eligible to keep your email account according to the current Auburn University Eligible User Policy. However, email accounts with no login activity for a period of one year will be disabled due to inactivity. Accounts that remain disabled for one year will be deleted. For more information, please see the Email Overview Knowledge Base Article. Alumni email accounts use Microsoft MFA for authentication.
2. I am an Auburn retiree, but which authentication should I be using?
- Retirees will use Microsoft MFA for authentication when logging into their Auburn email.
- Retirees will use Duo for authentication when logging into AU Access or VPN.
- Retirees still employed through temporary employment services (TES) will notice no change. They will continue to use Duo for all Duo-protected resources while employed. Once TES employment concludes, they will use Duo for all Duo-protected resources (ex: VPN, AU Access) and transition to Microsoft MFA for email.
3. I am signed into my Auburn email account, but I don't remember the password or how to sign in.
- Please contact the IT Service Desk for assistance. The IT Service Desk can assist with alumni and retiree password resets.
4. I had previously been using the Microsoft Authenticator app to log in to email, but I got a new mobile phone, and the app is disabled.
- Please contact the IT Service Desk for assistance. Your MFA account can be reset, allowing you to re-register the app on a new device.
5. How do I access my Auburn retiree or alumni email account in a web browser?
6. I have an iPhone and would like to access email on my mobile device. What do I do?
- The Outlook app is recommended. There is no charge for this app, and it can be downloaded from the Apple App Store. Please review the Knowledge Base article Email Using the Outlook App on Mobile Devices for step-by-step instructions.
7. I have an Android and would like to access email on my mobile device. What do I do?
- The Outlook app is recommended. There is no charge for this app, and it can be downloaded from the Google Play Store. Please review the Knowledge Base article Email Using the Outlook App on Mobile Devices for step-by-step instructions.
8. I have an up-to-date Chromebook and cannot locate the Outlook app.
- Chromebooks will no longer support the Outlook app starting November 2, 2021. Chromebook users are encouraged to view Auburn email from a web browser.
9. How often will I have to re-authenticate with Microsoft MFA?
- Your device will remain authenticated for up to 90 days if used regularly on the email app and up to 7 days on your web browser before being prompted to re-authenticate.
If you are still experiencing issues with your Auburn retiree or alumni email and Microsoft MFA:
- Check to make sure your operating system is up-to-date, and install any necessary updates for your operating system.
- Contact the IT Service Desk at (334) 844-4944. The IT Service Desk is available to assist Auburn retirees and alumni Monday - Friday between the hours of 7:30 AM CT - 5:00 PM CT. If you do need to contact the IT Service Desk, please have a valid, government-issued ID with you (i.e. driver's license or passport) for identity verification purposes.
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