University of Houston-Downtown will soon require employees to utilize two factor authentication (2FA) as a means of security. Faculty and staff have until Oct. 13 to utilize Duo, a vendor that provides 2FA.

After the deadline, 2FA will be required for Office 365 web apps. Other applications will be announced and added later.

Office 365 web applications include but are not limited to the following:

• Outlook Web Access (OWA)
• One Drive
• Microsoft Teams

2FA is an additional layer of authentication beyond a username and password. 2FA involves something that employees know (such as a password) plus something that they have (like a cellphone or tablet) to prevent an unauthorized person from logging in with only a password. With Duo 2FA, employees still enter a username and password. The second factor provided by Duo is an added layer of security on top of the existing credentials.

2FA is the most effective way to secure computer accounts, and it is easy to use. It allows employees to confirm their identity by text message, phone call, mobile application, and other methods.

To aid employees, UHD Information Technology will have daily Duo Enrollment Workshops to answer any questions employees may have and to assist in the enrollment process.

Methods to gain access to DUO as well as a list of frequently asked questions are available on the UHD IT website.