How to Set an MFA Option for Your Okta Account

 

Overview

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password. Setting up an MFA option in Okta helps protect your account from unauthorized access.

Prerequisites

  • Please read through full instructions before starting the process.
  • You must know your ACCEID and password.
  • You must have access to the device you want to use for MFA (e.g., mobile phone, tablet, etc.).
  • FIRST, Download Okta Verify App or Google Authenticator App from your Google Play (android)/Apple App store (iOS).

Step 1 – Sign in to Your Okta Account

  1. Open a web browser and go to the Okta Sign-In page (austincc.okta.com).
  2. Enter your ACC EID and password.
  3. If prompted, complete your current MFA verification to proceed.

Step 2 – Access Security Settings

  1. After logging in, click your profile icon (top-right corner).
  2. Select Settings from the dropdown menu.

Step 3 – Choose an MFA Option

  1. Scroll down to the Extra Verification or Security Methods section.
  2. Click Set up next to the MFA option you want to use. Common MFA methods include:
*   Okta Verify App (recommended)  
     
*   Google Authenticator  
     

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Step 4 – Follow the Setup Instructions

The setup process will vary depending on the MFA method you choose:

For Okta Verify:

  1. Click Set up next to Okta Verify.
  2. Download the Okta Verify app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
  3. Open the app and follow the prompts to add a new account.
  4. Scan the QR code displayed on your Okta screen.
    • If you are only using mobile device for all steps, select option to receive setup link via email or text.
      • Click the provided link to link account to Okta Verify app
    • If prompted for the URL, use austincc.okta.com
  5. Click Done when setup is complete.

For Google Authenticator:

  1. Click Set up next to Google Authenticator.
  2. Download and open Google Authenticator on your mobile device.
  3. Scan the QR code shown in Okta.
    • If you are only using mobile device for all steps, select Can't Scan.
      • Copy code presented on screen.
      • Open Google Authenticator
      • Select +; Enter a setup key
      • Paste code into your key field and click Add
  4. Enter the generated code on Okta screen to complete setup.

Tips

  • Set up more than one MFA method so you have a backup in case your primary device is lost.
  • If you replace or reset your phone, update your MFA settings immediately to avoid being locked out.
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