Microsoft provides several ways to verify your identity when signing in to your TWU Microsoft account. TWU supports multiple authentication options so you can choose an available method that works for you. The authentication options described below include Microsoft Authenticator app, passkeys, and Windows Hello PIN.
Mac users: Additional information about authentication options for Mac devices will be provided in the coming weeks.
Microsoft Authenticator
Microsoft Authenticator is a mobile app that can be used to approve MFA sign-in requests. When you sign in to a Microsoft service, you may receive a notification in the Microsoft Authenticator app. Open the app and approve the sign-in request. Microsoft Authenticator requires a compatible mobile device.
Passkeys
A passkey is a secure sign-in method that uses a device-based credential instead of a password. On TWU-managed Windows devices, passkeys can be set up to use your Windows Hello PIN to verify your identity. If you are using a personal device, the available sign-in method may vary depending on the device and its configuration and could include a PIN, fingerprint, facial recognition, or another device security method.
Windows Hello PIN
Windows Hello PIN is available as an additional authentication option for users with TWU-managed Windows computers or Windows 10/11 Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions. With Windows Hello, you can configure a PIN on your Windows computer. The PIN can then be used to authenticate when signing in to Microsoft accounts.See Configuring Windows Hello for setup instructions.
Which Method Should I Use?
You may use an available authentication method that works for your situation.
|
Authentication Method
|
What You Use |
Availability |
| Microsoft Authenticator |
Mobile device and Authenticator app |
Available to users with a compatible mobile device |
| Passkey |
A device-based security method. On TWU-managed Windows devices, this uses your Windows Hello PIN. On personal devices, available options may include a PIN, fingerprint, facial recognition, or another device security method. |
Available on supported devices |
| Windows Hello |
Windows Hello PIN on a TWU-managed Windows computer |
Windows 10/Windows 11 Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions |
Keep More Than One Method Available
Having more than one authentication method can help you maintain access if one method is unavailable. If you currently rely only on SMS or voice call authentication, set up another supported authentication method before February 1, 2027. See Removing SMS or Voice Call as a Microsoft MFA Method for instructions on removing your existing phone-based method after another method has been successfully configured.
For additional support, contact the Technology Service Desk at 940-898-3971, servicedesk@twu.edu, submit a request through the Technology Service Catalog.