How to Set an MFA Option for Your Okta Account

This [TYPE OF ARTICLE] article will help [AUDIENCE TYPE] to [ACTION]. The user must have the following settings enabled within the Security Role: [PERMISSION 1, PERMISSION 2]. 

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.

[How-to section, e.g., Creating an Article]

Prerequisites

  • You must have an active Okta account.
  • You must know your EID and password.
  • You must have access to the device or app you want to use for MFA (e.g., mobile phone, authentication app, etc.).

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  
     
*   SMS Authentication (text message codes)  
     
*   Security Key or Biometric (WebAuthn)

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.
  5. Click Done when setup is complete.

For SMS Authentication:

  1. Click Set up next to SMS Authentication.
  2. Enter your mobile phone number.
  3. Click Send Code and check your text messages.
  4. Enter the code in Okta and click Verify.

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.
  4. Enter the generated code 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 change your phone or number, update your MFA settings immediately to avoid being locked out.

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Author: Louie Jasso

Last updated: 8/18/25

 

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