Two Factor Authentication - Phone Number Option
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an identity and access management security method that requires two forms of identification to access resources and data (Microsoft definition).
In this Knowledge Article (KA), contains important information and resources you will need to ensure the successful setup of 2FA for your account using your phone number as your primary authentication method.
2FA is active for all Webster accounts when accessing Connections, Email, and Office 365 from off-campus. Therefore, you will not be required to use 2FA when connecting on the Webster network (including campus housing in the dorms/apartments), however, the first time you logon to Connections after 2FA is turned on for your account whether on campus or off, you will need to setup your security options and secondary authentication method, or complete 2FA authentication to your phone number or Authenticator App if you already have one set as your default sign-in recovery/authentication option.
Setting Up Two-Factor Authentication: Using phone number as Primary Authentication Method
Step 1. Open any browser of your choice using a computer and go to https://connections.webster.edu
Step 2. Enter your @webster.edu email address. You will be redirected to our Webster University sign-in page. Sign-in using your Webster email ID and existing password.
Connections sign-in page
** For new Employees / Students
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Enter your temporary password and click Sign In. Your temporary password typically follows the format of first letter of first name (uppercase), first letter of last name (lowercase), 7-digit Webster ID number, hashtag (#) sign (Example, Js1234567# where 1234567 is your own ID number). On the next page, you will see that your password has expired and needs to be updated.
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Enter your temporary password again and then proceed to create a new password for your account in the third and fourth boxes. Your password must meet the criteria at the bottom of the page. Click Submit when done.
Update password page
Step 3. After you create your new password, go back to https://connections.webster.edu and sign in with your updated login information.
More information required page
Step 4. Once you are signed in successfully, “More information required” page is displayed. Click on Next to continue to the “Keep your account secure” page.
Step 5. Choose the Phone option from the drop-down menu and then click Next.
Step 6. Select your country code, type in the phone number you want to use for the 2FA authentication, choose your preferred way of receiving a code (either by text or call). Click Next.
Provide phone number and preferred option to receive code
Step 7. To verify your phone number you provided, you will receive a 6-digit code either through a text or call based on the option you choose to receive the code on the previous page.
Step 8. On the current page, type in the 6-digit code and click on Next.
Step 9. Finally, you will receive a successful confirmation. Click on Done if prompted and then proceed to sign-in to Connections once again at https://connections.webster.edu