Overview
Columbia College requires Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all users to gain secure access to campus applications and resources. MFA adds an extra layer of security beyond your password to protect you and the college if your credentials are compromised. This guide walks you through registering your MFA device, setting up a Passkey, and using MFA to log in.
Applies to: Staff Faculty Students
⚠ Important: SMS & Phone Call Verification Retiring February 1, 2027
Microsoft will be removing all SMS text message and voice phone call verification options on February 1, 2027.
After this date, Microsoft will exclusively accept the Microsoft Authenticator App and Passkeys for MFA verification. All users must transition to one of these methods before the deadline to avoid losing access to their Columbia College account.
What is a Passkey?
A passkey is a passwordless, cryptographic sign-in method that pairs your device with your account using biometrics — such as Apple Touch ID, Face ID, or Windows Hello — or a dedicated hardware security key (such as a YubiKey). Instead of entering a password or waiting for an SMS code, you simply authenticate with your fingerprint, face, or PIN.
Why use a Passkey? Passkeys are phishing-resistant, faster than traditional passwords, and provide the highest level of sign-in security available. They are one of the two approved MFA methods that will remain supported after February 1, 2027.
Note for Adjuncts & Student Workers
Adjunct instructors and student workers must log in using their username@ccis.edu credentials — not their CougarMail address — when accessing the MFA registration portal.
Step-by-Step Guide
Part 1: MFA Device Registration
1 Visit the Microsoft MFA Registration Portal
From your computer, navigate to Microsoft's MFA registration page to begin enrollment.
●Go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup.
2 Sign In with Your Institutional Account
Log in with your Columbia College email and password.
●Enter your username in the format: username@ccis.edu.
●Note: Adjunct instructors and student workers must log in with username@ccis.edu, not CougarMail.
3 Configure the Microsoft Authenticator App
Set up mobile verification using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone.
●On the Step 1 screen, select Mobile app from the dropdown list and choose Receive notification for verification (recommended).
●Download the Microsoft Authenticator App on your mobile device from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
●Click Set up on your computer and follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code with your mobile app (see this guide for detailed steps).
●Click Next on your computer once the app is configured.
4 Verify Your First MFA Approval
Test your configuration by approving the verification request sent to your device.
●On the Step 2 page, check your mobile device for the prompt and select Approve.
●Click Done. Your MFA device registration is now complete!
Passkey Setup
Part 2: Setting Up a Passkey
1 Go to Your Microsoft Security Info Page
Access your account's security settings to add a passkey as a sign-in method.
●Go to mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info and sign in with your username@ccis.edu credentials.
●Click + Add sign-in method.
2 Select Your Passkey Type
Choose the passkey option that best fits your device and preferences:
●Passkey in Microsoft Authenticator — Uses the Authenticator app on your phone as a passkey with biometric or PIN verification. Best for most users.
●Security Key / Passkey (FIDO2) — Uses a physical hardware key (e.g., YubiKey) or your device's built-in biometrics (Windows Hello, Touch ID, Face ID). Best for users who want the highest level of security.
●Select your preferred option from the dropdown and click Add.
3 Complete the Passkey Registration
Follow your browser and device prompts to finalize the passkey setup:
●Authenticate using your fingerprint, facial recognition, PIN, or hardware key when prompted by your device or browser.
●Give your passkey a recognizable name (e.g., "Work MacBook Touch ID" or "Office YubiKey") so you can identify it later.
●Click Done. Your passkey is now registered and ready to use.
4 Set Your Default Sign-In Method (Optional)
If you would like your passkey to be used by default for all future sign-ins:
●On the Security Info page, click Change next to Default sign-in method.
●Select your registered passkey or Microsoft Authenticator - notification, then click Confirm.
Daily Use
Part 3: How to Sign In Using MFA
When accessing a Columbia College system that requires MFA:
1.Log in with your Columbia College credentials (username@ccis.edu and password).
2.You will be prompted to approve the sign-in request on your registered MFA device.
3.Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device and select Approve, or authenticate using your registered Passkey (biometric or hardware key).
4.You are now authenticated and will be granted access to the college system.
Support & Assistance
Get Help
Need additional assistance setting up or signing in with Multi-Factor Authentication or Passkeys?