Duo FAQs


What is Multifactor Authentication?

What is Duo and how does it benefit me?

This seems like extra work for me. Why do I need to use DUO?

Can I opt out?

How does it work?

Who is required to use Duo?

Where can I go for more information, training or support?

How and when do I get signed up for Duo?

What mobile devices are supported?

I don’t have a supported mobile device. What options do I have for using Duo?

How many devices can I register?

I am unable to install the Duo application on my mobile device because my device
is not supported or not running a recent operating system. What can I do?

I’m leaving ULV. Do I need to do anything with Duo?

Should I allow my Duo mobile app to update automatically?

When I try to get Duo from the Apple App Store, I’m asked for payment information.
Is the Duo mobile app free?


What is Multifactor Authentication?

Multifactor authentication (MFA) is a process that requires additional steps to prove the identity of the person logging into a system. There are three types of factors:

  • Something you know (such as a password)
  • Something you have (such as a smart card)
  • Something you are (such as a fingerprint)

At ULV we will use the first two factors for authentication. First you will log into systems as usual with your username and password. Then you will authenticate your identity using a device such as a mobile phone. A number of device options are available (described below).
Back to the top

What is Duo and how does it benefit me?
Duo is the third-party application that we will use to provide two-factor authentication on systems like Active Directory Federation Services (ADFS). For our initial deployment, only some applications that require you to login using your username and password will require Duo authentication as well.

Back to the top

This seems like extra work for me. Why do I need to use DUO?

Phishing and brute force attacks are increasing exponentially, and so are the risks that your credentials may be stolen and your passwords compromised. Duo provides a second layer of protection beyond your password, to ensure that every login from every device is legitimate. This helps us protect you, your work and ULV.

Back to the top


Can I opt out?
You will need to enroll in Duo if you use a ULV application or service that requires it. It takes less than five minutes to enroll.

Back to the top


How does it work?

An individual who is enrolled in Duo will use both their password and a device such as a mobile phone or landline phone when logging into Duo-enabled systems with their username.

Back to the top


Who is required to use Duo?

Once Duo is completely rolled out, all ULV staff will be required to use it for systems and applications where it has been enabled.

Back to the top

Where can I go for more information, training or support?
If you need help, please send a request to the Unified Service Desk at help@laverne.edu or 909-448-4130.

Back to the top


How and when do I get signed up for Duo?
Please contact the Unified Service Desk at help@laverne.edu or 909-448-4130.

Back to the top

What mobile devices are supported?

Supported devices include:

  • Traditional cell phones that support phone calls or text messaging
  • Smartphones running Apple iOS (iPhone), Android, Blackberry or Windows Phone, which can support the Duo mobile app, phone calls or text messaging
  • Tablets running Apple iOS (iPad, iPod) or Android that can support the Duo mobile app

Back to the top

I don’t have a supported mobile device. What options do I have for using Duo?
You do not need to have a mobile device to use Duo. Please contact the Unified Service Desk at help@laverne.edu or 909-448-4130 for more assistance.

Back to the top

How many devices can I register?
You may enroll as many devices as you want. In fact, we recommend enrolling multiple devices.

Back to the top

I am unable to install the Duo application on my mobile device because my device
is not supported or not running a recent operating system. What can I do?

Even if your mobile device does not support the Duo application, you can still use your device to receive phone calls or text (SMS) messages for Duo authentication.

Back to the top

I’m leaving ULV. Do I need to do anything with Duo?
Please contact the Unified Service Desk at help@laverne.edu or 909-448-4130 for more assistance.

Back to the top

Should I allow my Duo mobile app to update automatically?
Yes. Keeping the Duo app up- to- date ensures that any bugs or security vulnerabilities are resolved as quickly as possible.

Back to the top


When I try to get Duo from the Apple App Store, I’m asked for payment information.
Is the Duo mobile app free?

Yes, the Duo mobile app is free and can be downloaded from Apple Store, Google Play or the Microsoft Store.

Back to the top