MFA-Duo - First Time Setup for Smartphone or Tablet

This document will walk you through the process of setting up Duo Multi-factor Authentication for the first time for use with a smartphone or tablet.

Note: This document is only for setup if you're planning to use a smartphone or tablet with MFA Duo.

Background:

UW-Madison has selected Duo as our solution for Multi-factor Authentication. In order to utilize Multi-factor authentication, you will need to set it up on a smartphone, tablet or token.

More on the Duo Multi-factor Authentication Project can be found on here: MFA-Duo - What is Duo Multi-factor Authentication?.

Items needed for First Time Setup:

  1. Smartphone or tablet running supported platform.
  2. Smartphone or tablet connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data network.
  3. Separate device with a web browser (not the smartphone or tablet you are registering).
  4. Duo Mobile App. You will be prompted to download this free application during the setup process.

First Time Setup Process for smartphone or tablet:

  1. Open a browser on a device other than the smartphone/tablet you are trying to register.
  2. Navigate to www.mfa.wisc.edu. When prompted, authenticate with your NetID and password.
  3. Click on Register Smartphone or Tablet
  4. You will be prompted for your NetID password once more, then you should be redirected to the Device Management Portal and prompted with the following screen:

    step 1

    1. Please note - If you are setting up your device due to an error during initial registration you will be prompted for a temporary passcode instead, as seen in the screenshot listed below. You will need to contact the DoIT Help Desk by phone for assistance.

      enter bypass code

  5. Click through the prompts until you arrive at the following screen:

    step 2

  6. Select Duo Mobile to register a smartphone or tablet. Select Security key to register a security key. Instructions for registering a security key are here.

    See accessibility & usability information

    We work with our users to address access and usability barriers in the MFA user experience. Learn details about known access barriers and workarounds at MFA-Duo - Accessibility & Usability Information. If you encounter a barrier or need assistance, please contact the DoIT Help Desk or call (608) 264-4357.

    For questions regarding how to get access to the MFA mobile app contact the DoIT Help Desk at (608) 264-4357 or email help@doit.wisc.edu.

    How to get access to a Security Key or Duo Token/Fob 

    Students

    Students, to obtain a token/fob, please contact the DoIT Help Desk (608) 264-4357 or email help@doit.wisc.edu. Students with disabilities can also request a token or security key at the McBurney Disability Resource Center, 702 W. Johnson St., Suite #2104, Madison WI 53715 on the 2nd floor.

    Faculty, Staff, and Researchers

    Employees can get access to devices for MFA at their Human Resources Office or IT department. For questions contact the DoIT Help Desk at (608) 264-4357 or email help@doit.wisc.edu. 



    Keywords:
    password login multi help getting started using use ios device portal app mobile ios android apple ipad tablet desk phones landline codes special enroll start complete first-time registration process register for duo setup keyfobs fobs physical tokens smart smartphones devices set up initial beginning multiple
    Doc ID:
    81448
    Owned by:
    MST Support in Identity and Access Management
    Created:
    2018-04-05
    Updated:
    2025-02-10
    Sites:
    DoIT Help Desk, Identity and Access Management