Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is being added to Microsoft Office 365 suite of services, which includes Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, Word, and more, beginning Thursday, Oct. 29.
With implementation of MFA with myWSU in Dec. 2019, and the subsequent addition of more than 90 WSU applications since that time, Cougs university-wide rely on this security tool to keep personal, organizational, and research data safer than ever.
MFA and Outlook
Beginning with this addition of MFA for WSU email at 8 p.m. on Oct. 29, Microsoft Outlook is the only recommended email application going forward.
Some users currently access their WSU email activity via an array of different apps and services, such as Apple Mail, Samsung Email and Blue Mail. However, many third-party mail tools pre-loaded on devices are not MFA-compliant. Continuing to use them for WSU email after Oct. 29 could result in the inability to access WSU email if they do not allow users to complete the final login step required with MFA.
ITS encourages all WSU email users to review their email environment. Check for any extra mail applications, even dedicated Outlook users may not realize that their WSU email is linked to their MacBook or iPhone’s Mail application.
WSU’s fundamental missions of transformative student experience, exceptional research, and institutional effectiveness rely on a secure cyber environment even more during this COVID era. Multi-Factor Authentication continues to allow the WSU community to learn, research and communicate more securely.
“Cybersecurity is a journey, not a destination,” says CIO and VP, Dr. Sasi Pillay. “And, every year, we continue to improve.”
Outlook offers free desktop, web browser, smartphone, and tablet versions so users are confident they have the latest versions of Outlook (Outlook 2019 and 2016 for Windows, and Outlook 2019 for Mac), no matter the device.
Visit the ITS website for more information including Changing to Outlook FAQs: Combining calendars, managing notifications, and more.
For assistance with questions, please visit Crimson Service Desk online, via phone 509-335-4357, or via email.
