Overview
This article is intended for NEOMED faculty, staff, students, and affiliates who use a NEOMED account to access university systems and services, and explains what multifactor authentication (MFA) is, and how it has been implemented at NEOMED.
What is Multifactor Authentication (MFA)?
Signing in to an account generally involves two actions:
- Identify yourself by entering a username, email address, or account number.
- Verify your identity by providing evidence that you own the account, such as a password, device prompt, biometric, or security key.
Multifactor authentication adds another layer of protection by requiring more than one form of verification. At NEOMED, you provide that second form of authentication by using a device you own to confirm that you are the one attempting to log in. This ensures that someone else can't log in with your ID using your password alone; they would also need to have access to your device.
Available MFA Methods
NEOMED uses Microsoft for its MFA. Microsoft MFA allows you to use the following types of devices to perform multifactor authentication:
- Microsoft Authenticator on a smartphone or tablet: Approve a notification, enter a one-time passcode, or use an available passwordless method.
- SMS/text message or basic cellphone: Receive a verification code. This method will no longer be available beginning February 1, 2027.
- Voice call to a mobile or landline telephone: Complete verification by phone. This method will no longer be available beginning February 1, 2027.
- FIDO2 security key: Verify your identity with a supported physical security key.
For detailed instructions on how to complete your first-time setup, please refer to the Knowledge Base article Microsoft MFA and SSPR – First Time Setup.
Action Required Before February 1, 2027
Beginning February 1, 2027, NEOMED will no longer support MFA verification by phone call or SMS/text message. If you currently use either method, enroll in another approved option before the deadline to avoid losing access. Review NEOMED MFA: Which MFA Option Should I Choose? for help selecting a replacement method.
What is Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR)?
Microsoft Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) gives you the ability to change or reset your NEOMED account password, with no administrator or help desk involvement. Additionally, if your account is locked, changing or resetting your password using SSPR also unlocks your account. For detailed instructions on how to complete your first-time setup, please refer to the Knowledge Base article Microsoft MFA and SSPR – First Time Setup.
How do I use SSPR to reset/change my password or unlock my NEOMED account?
Once you complete your first-time setup (Microsoft MFA and SSPR – First Time Setup), please refer to the Knowledge Base articles to reset or change your password (which will also unlock your account if it is locked):
Related Resources
Issues Signing-in?
Please refer to the Microsoft Can't sign in to your Microsoft account article.
How to Setup Certain MFA Methods
Please refer to our MFA: Multifactor Authentication (MFA) Help and Resources List
Other Issues?
You can contact the NEOMED Help Desk by creating a new support ticket or via email at help@neomed.edu.