Using Duo

Login credentials typically fall into these general categories:

• • something you know (like a password or PIN)

  • something you have (like a smartphone or security token)

  • something you are (like your fingerprint)

Multi-factor authentication (MFA), allows you to present two categories of credential when authenticating to an account. Duo provides 'something you have' and, when paired with your password 'something you know', we have a greater assurance that the individual logging in is who they say they are.

The university has both an ethical and legal obligation to protect its data from unauthorized disclosure. Using a second factor in addition to your username and password allows us to minimize the impact if your password is stolen.

Some Catholic University systems now require two authentication factors for access: your Cardinal Credentials (your Username and Password) and second factor (Duo authentication). Some VPN access may require you to use a second factor as well.

The good news is that the second factor can be as easy as tapping a button on your phone or entering a few additional digits to your password.

After providing your username and password combination (Cardinal Credentials) and based on how you chose to set up Duo, you will respond to a prompt on your smart phone, receive a call to a phone line (land or cell) or add some additional information during login. The option is yours.

For more information, visit Duo Authentication Methods

The Virtual Private Network (VPN) permits remote access to certain University applications.

Duo allows us to better verify that the person attempting to access a University system or service is who they say they are.

These two technologies provide complimentary but different functions. Some applications such as Cardinal Financials are configured to require users outside the campus to use the VPN. Duo helps ensure that the person logging in, even if someone else has obtained their password, is authorized to use the account.

Please read about Enrolling in Duo.

Please email the Service Desk (techsupport@cua.edu) and we will be happy to look into the problem, or assist you setting up Duo for a new device.

Please read our Duo FAQ.