Beginning Wednesday, Oct. 29, all Marquette University students will be required to use Microsoft multi-factor authentication to access single sign-on applications from off-campus. This initiative supports the university’s ongoing efforts to safeguard both personal and institutional data, enhancing cybersecurity for the entire campus community.
What is single sign-on?
Single sign-on is an authentication method that streamlines access to multiple applications and services by allowing users to log in once with a single set of credentials. After entering your Marquette username and password, you can conveniently access platforms such as email, learning management systems and university portals without needing to log in to each application separately.
What is multi-factor authentication?
Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring two or more forms of verification before granting account access. After entering your password, you may be prompted to provide a code sent to your phone, respond to an app notification or use another authentication method. MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized account access, even if your password is compromised.
New Authentication Options
In addition to the student MFA requirement, IT Services is introducing new authentication options for students, faculty and staff:
- Passwordless Authentication: This method allows users to sign into accounts and services without traditional passwords, reducing risks related to phishing, password guessing and theft. Microsoft supports several passwordless methods:
- Software Passkeys: Phishing-resistant credentials based on public-key cryptography, offering a secure and user-friendly alternative to passwords. Students, faculty and staff can now register software passkeys in Microsoft Authenticator.
- Yubikey Hardware Keys: Physical devices that provide a highly secure way to verify identity. Students, faculty and staff can now register Yubikey Series 5 devices for account access.
To prepare for these changes, students should confirm their Microsoft MFA enrollment and consider exploring the new authentication options available. Faculty and staff are also encouraged to enroll in MFA and evaluate the benefits of passkeys or Yubikeys for stronger account protection. You can access your MFA settings here.
It is important to note that applications and services at Marquette University that do not support SSO as of Oct. 29 — such as Checkmarq and D2L — will not be impacted by this change.
If you need assistance with MFA setup or have questions about authentication methods, please contact the IT Services TechSquad at techsquad@marquette.edu or (414) 288-7799.
