Kent State Flashline QR code refers to the one code used when you configure the Microsoft Authenticator App. The code is displayed on the screen. You will not be able to scan it if you are configuring MFA on the same device that has the Microsoft Authenticator App installed.
MFA or Multi Factor Authentication is the process that requires you to provide two or more verification factions to earn access to a resource such as Kent State FlashLine. This one is an essential component of a strong identity and access management policy. Aside from just asking for a username and password, it requires one or more additional verification factors, which prevents the likelihood of a successful cyber hacking.
Why is Multi Factor Authentication important? The main advantage of MFA is it will increase the security of your Kent State Flashline account by requiring you to identify yourself by more than a username and password. Both username and password are important but they are all risky to be stolen by third parties. Using MFA and all the things like a thumbprint or physical hardware key will increase the confidence that both you and Kent State University will stay safe from cyber criminals.
If you have a plan to use the Microsoft Authentication App as your authentication verification methods, please install the app, which is available for both Android and iOS, before starting the process. When your account is ready, you will get a notification as you log in, informing you that more information is needed. Please click Next on this page. Then, select one of the following based on the authentication verification selections you chose:
- Configuration steps for Mobile App with a Notification and Mobile App with a Verification Code
- Configuration steps for Mobile Phone SMS Text and Phone Call
If you choose one, after clicking Next, you will be taken to the MFA configuration page. There is the default option on this page, which is setting up the Microsoft Authentication App. First, make sure to get Microsoft Authenticator App on your mobile device. Click Next once installed. Second, click the icon to add new accounts. Third, choose the Work or School account option to open the camera with a box highlighted in blue. Fourth, back on your device and click Next. Fifth, scan the QR code displayed on the screen with the Microsoft Authenticator App. After scanning, the view of the camera will disappear. Then, click Next. Sixth, click Approve when a notification appears. Seventh, click Next to review your MFA configuration. Eighth, review the information and click Done to complete the MFA configuration.
All these steps will configure your account to use the Mobile App with a Notification option by default. If you want to use the second option, please visit the official website of Kent State University at kent.edu to find the steps to do so. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the help desk of Kent State University.
