One size does not fit all when it comes to getting your Duo Multi-Factor Authentication account set up. While it’s recommended that users enroll to receive smartphone push alerts from Duo, that’s not always possible. Not everyone uses a smart phone, some people aren’t into downloading apps and some folks get by just fine with an old fashioned landline, thank you very much.

Fortunately, ITS has done a significant amount of live-environment testing and research when it comes to Duo enrollment for our community. One of the reasons we selected Duo was because of the flexibility of offering our users multiple (hence the term “multi-factor”) options when choosing a factor to pair with their login credentials. To help you decide which factor is right for you, we’ve summarized and ranked the available set-up possibilities for you below.

1. Smartphone – Best Option for Most

• Use the Duo App with push alerts to sign-in.
• Works with cellular and/or Wifi connectivity.
• If unable to connect, simply enter a code generated by the app.
• Set up additional options like text and landline calls to home or office.
• Purchase a Duo USB key if desired.

2. Basic Mobile Phone Without Data (e.g., flip phone)

• Get a Duo passcode by text sent to your phone or receive a call from Duo to authenticate.
• Set up additional options such as landline calls to your home or office.
• Purchase a Duo USB key if desired.

3. Office or Home Landline Phones

• Receive a Duo call to either
• Only viable if your’e within close proximity to your tethered (landline) phone.
• Purchase a Duo USB key if desired. ITS can assist with purchase in some instances.

4. Options 1, 2, and 3 Don’t Work for Me

• ITS will distribute USB Keys when the user is required to log in for work purposes and does not have reliable access to a phone.

Above all else, ITS strongly recommends that you set up as many of the “factors” listed above as you can. It’s always good to have a back up plan in case one is not available (e.g., you lose your phone).