Changing Your Default Sign-in Method

When you sign in to Syracuse University services, you verify your identity with a second step. Your default sign-in method is the one you're asked to use first. You can choose any method you've already set up on your account.

Microsoft Authenticator notifications and passkeys are the recommended methods at Syracuse University.

This takes about two minutes.

1. Go to mfa.syr.edu and sign in. You'll land on the Security info page.

2. Near the top of the page, find the line that starts with one of these:

   • Sign-in method when most advisable is unavailable

   • Default sign-in method

3. Select Change next to it.

4. Choose the method you want to use, such as Microsoft Authenticator - notification, a passkey, or a security key.

5. Select Confirm.

Only methods you've already set up appear in the list. If the line already shows the method you want, no change is needed.

Passkeys aren't available for parent and guest accounts. If you have one of these accounts, use Microsoft Authenticator instead.

1. Open a private or incognito browser window.

2. Go to mfa.syr.edu and sign in.

3. Confirm that you're asked to verify with something other than a text message or phone call.

A method can stop working if it was set up on an old phone or never fully completed.

To add a new one, go to mfa.syr.edu, select Add sign-in method, and follow the steps. You can then make it your default and delete the old one.

• Students, alumni, parents, and guests: Contact the ITS Service Center at 315-443-2677, help@syr.edu, or visit its.syr.edu/its_service_center. Walk-in support is available for current students in the first-floor lobby of the Women's Building.

• Faculty and staff: Contact your academic or administrative support personnel for assistance.

My Security info page says "You're using the most advisable sign-in method." What does that mean? Microsoft automatically asks you to use your strongest registered method when it can. The line under it shows which method is used when that one isn't available.

Does changing my default remove my other methods? No. It only changes which method you're asked to use first. Your other methods stay on your account.

Can I use a different authenticator app, like Authy or Google Authenticator? Yes. Authenticator apps that generate six-digit codes work for signing in. If you already use one and it works, you don't need to switch.

To add one, go to mfa.syr.edu, select Add sign-in method, choose Authenticator app, then select I want to use a different authenticator app.

The ITS Service Center supports Microsoft Authenticator. For help setting up, backing up, or moving another app to a new phone, use that app's support resources. If you can't sign in to your Syracuse University account, the Service Center can still help you regain access.

Why are Microsoft Authenticator and passkeys recommended? Text message codes and phone calls travel over the phone network, where they can be intercepted or redirected. Microsoft Authenticator and passkeys confirm your sign-in directly on your device, so there's nothing for someone else to steal.