Authenticator is a web browser extension that can be used to generate the 6-digit verification code needed to complete multi-factor authentication (MFA) It is a solution for individuals who don't currently have a cellphone to use with MFA. Follow these steps to set up and configure the extension with your Buffalo State network account.
Install the Authenticator extension
The Authenticator extension works in Chrome, Edge and Firefox. Follow the steps below to add the extension to your browser:
- In Chrome, go to this link, click Add to Chrome, and then click Add extension when you see the pop-up.
- In Edge, go to this link, click Get, and then click Add extension when you see the pop-up.
- In Firefox, go to this link, click Add to Firefox, and then click Add when you see the pop-up.
Note to Chrome users: After the extension installation is complete, you may get a "Chrome Issues" window. You can ignore this screen and close the tab. Also, go to the upper right corner of your browser, click on the Extension button (puzzle piece icon) and then click on the pushpin icon next to "Authenticator" to add the extension to your browser toolbar.
Configure the Authenticator extension
- Open a new browser tab and go to https://aka.ms/mysecurityinfo.
Please Note: You will need to complete the MFA verification when you sign-in to this site. If you are unable to complete the verification (e.g. because you lost your cellphone), you will need to contact the IT Help Desk and request a "Temporary Access Pass."
- Click Add sign-in method, select Authenticator app from the drop-down and click Add.
- From the window that appears, click the "I want to use a different authenticator app" link. Click Next.
- The Scan the QR code window will appear. Keep this window open and proceed to the next step.
- Click the Authenticator button on the toolbar and then click the scan button (which is the square with a horizontal line through it).
- Click Allow if your browser gives you a pop-up asking if you want to give Authenticator permission to access data for all websites.
- Click and drag your cursor over the QR code. You will get a message that your account was added. Click OK.
- Click Next on the Scan the QR code screen. You will be prompted to confirm the 6-digit code that your Authenticator extension generates.
- To generate the code, click the Authenticator button again from the toolbar. This time you should see a 6-digit code listed. Click on the number to copy it to the clipboard.
- Press Control + V on your keyboard (or Command + V on a Mac) to paste the code in to the Enter code box. Click Next to complete the configuration.
Use the Authenticator extension
- To use the Authenticator extension, sign-in to a Buffalo State site as you normally would (e.g. D2L Brightspace).
- After entering your Buffalo State username and password, you should see this MFA verification screen. Click Use a different verification option.
- On the next screen that appears, click Use verification code from mobile app or hardware token.
- Click the Authenticator button again from the toolbar. Click on the 6-digit number to copy it to the clipboard.
- Press Control + V on your keyboard (or Command + V on a Mac) to paste the code into the Verification code box. Click Sign in.
