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What is Multi Factor Authentication (MFA)?

If you are logging in via a SUMS-only login, and not via your organisation’s single sign-on, you will need to go through Multi Factor Authentication as another layer of authentication before you are logged in.

Below you can find guidance on how you can set up MFA, how you will use MFA when logging into your SUMS account, and what to do if you need to reset your MFA at any time.

Please note: If you do not currently use your University’s single sign-on and would like to discuss the potential implementation of this, please submit a ticket to [email protected].

What will I need to be able to verify my login?

Before you log in, you will need to ensure you have a Multi Factor Authentication app downloaded on your smartphone. This can be any authentication app, however the most commonly used are:

  • Google Authenticator (Mobile Only)
  • Microsoft Authenticator (Mobile Only)

Once you have downloaded this, follow the steps within the app to set this up on your phone.

What if I don’t have access to a smartphone?

Desktop MFA apps can also be used to set up MFA to log into SUMS. For example, 1Password can be used to generate one-time unique codes to accompany your login details.

Follow the steps they provide to install and set this up on your desktop; guidance is also provided below on how to verify your account when using a desktop MFA app.

What will happen the first time I log into SUMS following the introduction of MFA?

The first time you try to login following the introduction of MFA, you will be shown this screen:

Screenshot of MFA Setup

From here, you will need to register your chosen MFA app for future logins.

  • Smartphone MFA Users: Scan the given QR code using your MFA app and you will be given a 6-digit code to enter
  • Desktop MFA Users: Your desktop app will provide guidance on how to copy the QR code shown on the screen, which will also then generate a unique code for you to enter

Please note: If you need a new QR code to copy, click the ‘Refresh’ button to obtain a new code.

Enter the unique code that you are given on your MFA app and click ‘Submit’ to log into your SUMS account.

Will I need to register again?

No, once you have verified the first time, you will be shown this screen whenever you try to log into SUMS again:

Screenshot of MFA Registered

To obtain your MFA code, enter your MFA app via your desktop or smartphone and an entry for ‘SUMS’ will show.

Enter the code from the authentication app, then click ‘Submit’ to verify your login.

Once you have done this, you will gain access to the SUMS platform.

What if I need to reset my MFA?

You may need to reset your MFA if you need to change which application you use to generate your MFA codes, or if you are using a new device, such as a mobile phone, and need to set up MFA again.

If you are able to log into your SUMS account, you can reset your MFA by:

  1. Clicking your user icon in the top right of the screen
  2. Selecting ‘Settings’
  3. Under the Multi Factor Authentication section click ‘Reset’

If you are unable to sign into your SUMS account and need your MFA to be reset, your SUMS Administrator can do this for you via the Admin module.

They can simply find the correct account within the User section of the Admin module, and select the ‘Reset MFA’ button as shown below:

You will then be able to set your MFA up again following the guidance above.

Updated on 15th April 2024