Frequently Asked Question

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds a second layer of security to your Jersey College account. After you enter your password, you'll confirm it's really you using an app on your phone. Jersey College uses the Microsoft Authenticator app. This guide walks you through setting it up for the first time.

What you'll need:

• Your Jersey College full email (firstname.lastname@jerseycollege.edu) and password
• Your smartphone (iPhone or Android)
• A computer to view the setup screen (this makes scanning the QR code easier)

Step 1 - Install Microsoft Authenticator on your phone:

1. On your phone, open the App Store (iPhone) or the Google Play Store (Android).
2. Search for "Microsoft Authenticator".
3. Tap Get or Install. Make sure the app is made by Microsoft Corporation.
4. Open the app, and allow notifications and camera access if asked (you'll use the camera to scan a QR code).

Step 2 - Start MFA setup with your Microsoft account:

1. On your computer, open a web browser and go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup (you can also get there by signing in at https://office.com, clicking your initials or photo, choosing "View account," then "Security info").
2. Sign in with your full Jersey College email (firstname.lastname@jerseycollege.edu) and password.
3. Click "Add sign-in method" and choose "Authenticator app," then "Add."
4. Follow the prompts until a QR code appears on the screen.

Step 3 - Add your account in the app:

1. In Microsoft Authenticator, tap the plus (+) sign, then choose "Work or school account," then "Scan a QR code."
2. Point your phone's camera at the QR code on your computer screen.
3. Your Jersey College account is added to the app.

Step 4 - Approve the test:

1. On your computer, click Next. It sends a test notification to your phone.
2. On your phone, approve the notification. You may be asked to type a number shown on the computer screen (this is called "number matching").
3. When the computer confirms it worked, click Done.

How you'll use it from now on:

• When you sign in to a Jersey College service, you'll get a notification on your phone (or be asked for a 6-digit code from the app). Approve it, or enter the code, to finish signing in.

Important tips:

• Keep Microsoft Authenticator on a phone you carry with you - you'll need it each time you're asked to verify.
• It's a good idea to also add a backup method (like a phone number) under Security info, in case you lose your phone.
• If you get a new phone later, set up Authenticator on the new phone BEFORE you erase or trade in the old one. See "How do I move Microsoft Authenticator (MFA) to a new phone without getting locked out?"
• Never approve a sign-in you didn't start, and never share a code. Jersey College staff will never ask you for a code.

If you're still having trouble, contact the Jersey College Help Desk at 201-645-1164 or itsupport@jerseycollege.edu.