Below is a list of the different types of devices that are available for you to use as well as descriptions of each of the ways you can use those devices to authenticate with Duo. We also have step-by-step instructions on how to register each type of device listed below.
We highly suggest you have at least two devices registered with Duo to provide the most flexibility during login and to ensure you will always be able to access your account when needed.
Smartphones/Mobile Phones (Recommended)
Mobile w/ App (Push)
With the Duo Mobile app installed on your mobile device, you can have Duo send push notifications to your device to complete authentication. Opening the push notification will open the Duo app to a screen that gives you the option to Approve or Deny the authentication request.
Mobile w/ App (Passcodes)
With the Duo Mobile app installed on your mobile device, you can generate 6-digit, one-time-use passcodes to complete authentication. Open the app on your device and tap the key icon next to your Swarthmore account to generate the code. Once the app is set up with your Duo account, the passcode option will allow you to generate and use passcodes to authenticate even if you are in an area with little to no wifi, data, or cellular service.
NOTE: in Duo, a "Passcode" is numerical and is NOT the same as your password.
Mobile (SMS Passcodes)
SMS passcodes can be requested from the Duo authentication screen upon login. You must have an SMS text capable device already registered with Duo to use this option. For authentication, choose the “Enter Passcode” option. A blue bar will appear at the bottom of the authentication window with your option to text you a set of 10 one-time-use passcodes. You can then use the passcodes option to enter one of the codes you were sent via text.
NOTE: in Duo, a "Passcode" is numerical and is NOT the same as your password.
Mobile Phone (Call Me)
When you register a landline or mobile phone as an authentication device you can receive an automated call to that number to complete authentication. The message will inform you that access has been requested to your account and it will tell you which buttons to press to accept or deny that request.
Landlines
When you register a landline or mobile phone as an authentication device you can receive an automated call to that number to complete authentication. The message will inform you that access has been requested to your account and it will tell you which buttons to press to accept or deny that request.
Tablets
Tablet w/ App (Push)
With the Duo Mobile app installed on your tablet or app-enabled touchscreen device (such as an iPod Touch), you can have Duo send push notifications to your device to complete authentication. Opening the push notification will open the Duo app to a screen that gives you the option to accept or decline the authentication request.
Tablet w/ App (Passcodes)
With the Duo Mobile app installed on your tablet or app-enabled touchscreen device (such as an iPod Touch), you can generate 6-digit, one-time-use passcodes to complete authentication. Open the app on your device and tap the key icon next to your Swarthmore account to generate the code. Once the app is set up with your Duo account, the passcode option will allow you to generate and use passcodes to authenticate even if you are in an area with little to no wifi, data, or cellular service.
NOTE: in Duo, a "Passcode" is numerical and is NOT the same as your password.
Tokens
Security Key
Duo allows you to register a security key as a second-factor device. This token is a small device designed to carry on a keychain that plugs into a USB port on your computer. One of the security key brands provided by the college is YubiKey. If you have a newer Macbook, you may be required to use a USB-C to USB adaptor to use this option. While on the Duo screen, you will plug in your YubiKey to an available USB port on your computer. The key symbol on the token will begin to blink, and once it does you will touch the key symbol. Once Duo has recognized that the YubiKey has been touched you will be authenticated and given access to your account.
If you have previously registered a security key with Duo it may have only been compatible with the Chrome browser. If so, the next time you authenticate with your security key you may get a prompt titled "Let's Update Your Security Key". This update will enable you to use your security key in more browsers. For more information, see our page on updating your security key.
Passcode Generator
There is another hardware token option available called a passcode generator (or digipass token). This is a small device designed to carry on a keychain that generates a 6-digit one-time use passcode when you push the green button on the device. These tokens need to be registered to you by the Help Desk. While on the Duo screen during login, you can click on the "Enter a Passcode" button - even if you did not select the token from the device dropdown menu. Anywhere that offers the "Enter a Passcode" option will accept a passcode from any registered device of yours that generates a passcode, including your digipass token. Once you enter the passcode, click the "log in" button and you will be given access to your account.
NOTE: in Duo, a "Passcode" is numerical and is NOT the same as your password.