How-to
1. Choose and install an authenticator app on your smartphone.
Choosing and installing an authenticator app is an important step in setting up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your accounts. Here's how you can do it, along with our recommendations:
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Research and Choose: Start by researching authenticator apps available for your smartphone's operating system. For Android users, we recommend considering freeOTP, an open-source authenticator app that's free to use and provides strong security. For Microsoft users, we suggest Microsoft Authenticator, which offers seamless integration with Microsoft services and robust security features.
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Download and Install: Once you've chosen the authenticator app that suits your needs, visit the app store on your smartphone (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and search for the app by name. Then, download and install the app on your device.
- Familiarize Yourself with the Authenticator: After installing the app, open it and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up before linking the authenticator app to your account. Take some time to explore its features and understand how it works. Familiarize yourself with tasks such as generating verification codes, accessing settings, and adding new accounts. This typically involves creating a new test account within the authenticator app or scanning a QR code provided by the service you're setting up 2FA for.
By familiarizing yourself with the authenticator app beforehand, such as freeOTP or Microsoft Authenticator, you'll be better prepared to set up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your account smoothly and securely.
2. Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your account
Activating Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your account is an essential step in bolstering the security of your online accounts. Here's how you can do it:
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Access Your Account Settings: Before you can activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your account, it's essential to ensure that your account is activated and accessible. Visit the URL provided by your company to access your account settings, typically located at https://yourcompany.scioerp.net. Please note that user activation is mandatory and is handled by HR. If your account has not been activated, reach out to HR to initiate the activation process. Once your account is activated and you have access to the account settings, you'll be able to proceed with activating 2FA. The screenshot below is what you will find upon opening the login page.
- Generate the
AuthenticationSecret Key: This key it's a unique code that is used to link your account with the authenticator app on your smartphone. Once linked, the authenticator app generates OTPs based on this secret key, which you'll use along with your password to log in securely. -
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Once in the account settings, locate the option to enable 2FA and proceed with activating it. You may need to confirm your identity by entering your password or providing additional information.
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Choose Authenticator App: When prompted to select a method for 2FA, opt for the authenticator app option. This typically involves scanning a QR code with your chosen authenticator app or manually entering a code provided by the platform.
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Generate Backup Codes: Some platforms offer the option to generate backup codes. These codes serve as a fallback method for accessing your account if you're unable to use your authenticator app, such as if you lose access to your smartphone. Ensure to securely store these backup codes.
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Verify Setup: After linking your authenticator app to your account, you'll likely need to verify the setup by entering a code generated by the app. This step confirms that the setup process was successful.
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Complete Activation: Once you've successfully verified the setup, 2FA will be activated for your account. Moving forward, whenever you log in, you'll be prompted to enter a verification code from your authenticator app in addition to your password.