Two-factor authentication (2FA)

Binghamton University now requires that all accounts use two factors of authentication (2FA) for certain services including Brightspace myBinghamton, BU Brain and others. Sign up now to ensure no interruptions in service.

Two Factor Authentication is an extra layer of security that requires that an individual has the following two things before they are able to authenticate into a system. These include:

  • Something you know (examples: password or PIN)
  • Something you have (examples: phone, computer, keyfob, card)

Consider the situation where you want to withdraw money from an ATM. In order to do so, you need both a PIN (something you know), as well as your ATM Card (something you have). Effectively, the concept here is the same.

The good news is that, if you know your Binghamton University username and password, you already have the “something you know,” which means you’re already halfway there. The part that remains is the “something you have.”

To fully enroll in 2FA, you will first need to identify the device or devices you want to use for verification (something you have). This could be a personal cell phone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer. Once you have identified the device, you will need to download and install an application, and then configure a secret “token” on that device.

Once you have identified the device, follow the relevant instructions below:

I want to use a phone or tablet (RECOMMENDED):

Follow these instructions to set up 2FA using Google Authenticator on your phone or tablet.
Difficulty: Medium
Expected Duration: At least 10 minutes

I want to use Chrome, Firefox or Edge on my laptop or desktop computer:

Follow these instructions to set up 2FA using a browser extension on your computer
Difficulty: Low - Medium
Expected Duration: At least 10 minutes

I use a Mac computer and want an alternative to the Authenticator App and Browser Extension:

Follow these instructions to set up 2FA using the Step Two App on a Mac computer
Difficulty: Medium - High
Expected Duration: At least 20 minutes

I am an Applicant / CSEA-OSU and do not have ongoing access to a phone, tablet, or computer:

Follow these instructions to set up 2FA using Email
Difficulty: Medium
Expected Duration: At least 10 minutes
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