JMU Information Technology (IT) is currently implementing Okta, a modern, cloud-based, Identity and Access Management (IAM) platform that will replace Duo. Simply put, once Okta goes "live," it will:

• Manage all eIDs and passwords at JMU and provide secure access into every major system
• Provide a jumping-off point from which you can access many JMU systems from one login
• Handle multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your account through the Okta Verify app

Please read the information below to learn important actions you need to take to be ready for the go-live date.

There are multiple major differences of which you should be aware:

• Okta uses the Verify app for MFA instead of the Duo Mobile app you have used in the past.
• With Okta, you will only need to change your password once per year.
• After moving to Okta, JMU will introduce a new password standard of at least 16 characters.
• With Okta, SMS (text messages) will no longer be accepted as an authentication factor (see FAQ below).
• If you currently have a Duo hardware token (sometimes called a D100), you must exchange it for a Yubikey. These devices will soon be available; look for upcoming details regarding obtaining one.

Refer to the Enrollment Schedule on this page to determine when your enrollment window opens. When your enrollment window opens, an email will be sent to your JMU email address that will prompt you to begin enrollment.

Steps

From a computer

1. In the Okta activation email, sent to your JMU email address (subject, "Welcome to JMU Okta!"), click the Activate Okta Account link. If the activation link has expired, then you will be prompted to request a new one before proceeding.
2. Click Set Up under the Okta Verify description.
3. A QR code will appear. Keep this screen open.
4. On your smartphone, download the Okta Verify app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
5. Once downloaded, open the app, click Get Started and click through the next two prompts.
6. After clicking Add Account, select Organization (Work, school, company) as the Account Type.
7. Skip Add Account from Another Device.
8. On the Do You Have a QR Code? screen, click Yes, Ready to Scan.
9. Scan the QR Code from Step 3.
10. Finish the setup process. (JMU recommends that you Allow Notifications for push authentications)

From a mobile device

1. Download the Okta Verify app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
2. In the Okta activation email, sent to your JMU email address (subject, "Welcome to JMU Okta!"), click the Activate Okta Account link. If the activation link has expired, then you will be prompted to request a new one before proceeding.
3. Click Set Up under the Okta Verify description.
4. Select whether you want to be sent an email enrollment link or a text message enrollment link.
5. Click the enrollment link in the email or text message you selected from Step 4.
6. Finish the setup process. (JMU recommends that you Allow Notifications for push authentications)

Once you've enrolled into Okta Verify with at least one device, you're ready! Do not remove Duo Mobile from your device(s) - Duo will continue to authenticate logins until Okta goes live during Spring Break. Okta Verify will automatically take over at that time. If you need to enroll a second device or a hardware token, or if you replace a device you've enrolled (e.g., you get a new phone), please return to Okta to update your information or reach out to the IT Help Desk for assistance.

Ask a Question

Report an Issue

Search for Answers

Please see additional frequently asked questions below.