Duo Multi-Factor Authentication
Duo is a multi-factor authentication tool chosen by Towson University to prevent data breaches, and to prove that you are you. This page provides self-help resources for using Duo at TU.
This service and vendor documentation are cloud hosted. Updates are not controlled by Towson University. TU-specific documentation is reviewed quarterly to bring it into alignment with the most recent version of the service or software.
The Duo project is underway!
This project expands multi-factor authentication (Duo MFA) protection to students,
student employees, retirees, faculty emeriti and guest accounts by spring 2025. Learn
more at towson.edu/duoproject.
The Duo project is underway!
This project expands multi-factor authentication (Duo MFA) protection to students, student employees, retirees, faculty emeriti and guest accounts by spring 2025. Learn more at towson.edu/duoproject.
What is Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (Duo)?
Duo is a security method that requires a second form of identification to help you securely login to systems the university wants to strongly protect. This proves you initiated the login by providing a . Even if a criminal manages to steal your password, they won’t be able to access your data, thanks to Duo.
Who uses Duo at TU?
All current faculty and staff are required to use Duo when using their NetID to access certain TU resources and authenticate their identity using both their password and enrolled mobile device. Students, student employees, retirees and Guest NetIDs are not eligible to use Duo at this time, except for accounts identified with access to confidential or sensitive information.
Services requiring Duo
Almost all of TU's systems are protected by Duo. helps reduce the number of times you need to log in - but it is required when prompted.
How does it work?
Logging into multifactor authentication requires something you know (like your TU NetID and password) and something you have (like Duo app or texted codes). The easiest way to authenticate is to use the Duo app on your phone. There are back-up options if you don't have your phone so it's recommended you enroll multiple devices.
Enroll or manage Duo devices, hardware tokens and emergency passcodes using the NetID management system.
Get started with Duo and NetID ManagementSelf-Help Resources
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I authenticate with my smart phone if I don't have a cell signal, data, or a reliable Wi-Fi connection?
You can use the Duo mobile app (available for smartphone or tablet) to even if you don't have an Internet, Wi-Fi, or a cellular connection.
My account is locked out from multiple bad attempts (or Duo is stating that "my session has expired"). What should I do?
The most common reason for your account to be locked out is from multiple incorrect NetID password attempts or multiple failed Duo login attempts in a row. Wait for your NetID and your Duo access to both automatically unlock after 10 minutes, or contact the OTS Faculty/Staff Help Center at 410-704-5151 for assistance.
I don't want to receive a Duo prompt every time I log in. How do I get Duo to remember me?
You can select the "Remember Me" option. This allows Duo to remember you, lessening the number of prompts you receive. You must be authenticating on the same computer/browser and must not clear browser cookies.
If I don't have a supported mobile device, what options do I have for using Duo?
You can use a landline (like an office or home phone) to authenticate with a phone call. In limited circumstances, a hardware token (a small keychain/electronic device that generates a passcode) can be requested by contacting the OTS Faculty/Staff Help Center.
Is the Duo mobile app free? When I try to get Duo from the Apple App Store, I’m asked for payment information.
Yes, the Duo mobile app is free. The Apple App Store requires payment information on record even when downloading a free app.
Support
For help with Duo, submit a service request or contact the OTS Faculty/Staff Help Center.