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MFA FAQs

Overview

This article answers frequently asked questions (FAQs) about MCC's implementation of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA is part of our cybersecurity strategy to protect sensitive student, faculty, and staff data. 

Getting Started

MFA adds a second layer of security to your MCC accounts by requiring a second verification factor—usually a push notification or a hardware token—alongside your password.

For first time Duo enrollment instructions see IT Hub Article: Duo First Time Enrollment. Additional information and access to the MFA portal are provided below. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is MFA? 

MFA adds a second layer of security when logging into your account. It requires something you know (your password) and something you have (like a mobile app notification or a hardware token). 

Why is MCC Implementing MFA? 

MFA significantly reduces the risk of account compromise. It blocks over 99.9% of phishing and stolen credential attacks. MCC is adopting MFA to comply with state and federal regulations and to enhance the security of our community's information.

MCC received a grant to help pay for the implementation. That grant requires the implementation to be complete by 8/31/2025.

What systems will require MFA? 

Initially, MFA is required for: 

  • Systems accessed via Single Sign-On (SSO)
    • Award Spring
    • Brightspace
    • Cascade CMS
    • College Central
    • Comevo
    • ConnectWise ScreenConnect
    • Focus 2 Careers
    • Guardian Conduct
    • Ice Learning Center
    • IT Hub (Bookstack)
    • KBPort - Nursing and Respiratory
    • KnowBe4
    • LibApps
    • Mongoose (Cadence)
    • OCLC WMS Worldshare
    • Parchment
    • Pharos 360
    • Qualtrics
    • Rave
    • Register Blast
    • Screen Cloud
    • Softdocs Etrieve
    • Strategic Planning Online (SPOL)
    • Texas Higher Ed Coordinating Board
    • The Atlantic
    • Upswing
    • Zoom
  • VPN (GlobalProtect)

How will I authenticate? 

You can authenticate using: 

  • Duo Mobile app (recommended)
  • Hardware token (for users without smartphones and accessibility needs)
  • Phone call  (limited and optional)
  • YubiKey

What if I lose my phone or cannot access my second factor? 

Contact the Help Desk at helpdesk@mclennan.edu for a one-time bypass or device reset. You can also visit the Learning Commons for in-person support. 

Is there a cost for MFA? 

No. Duo Mobile is free. MCC provides tokens for users with ADA accommodations or accessibility needs. Additional tokens may be available for purchase at the McLennan Bookstore. 

Will MFA affect my ability to access campus systems off-campus? 

Yes—in a good way. MFA protects your account even off-campus. You’ll use your second factor when logging in from a new device or location. 

What if I don't have a smartphone? 

You can use a hardware token. Request one through the Bookstore or the Help Desk. 

Will students be required to use MFA? 

Yes, students will be included in a future rollout phase. Communication and instructions will be provided when required. 

What if I am a student and employee?

No problem. You'll have to make a MFA pairing as both a student and an employee because they are separate accounts. You should receive an email to each account. Follow the steps in each to setup MFA. We recommend you name each something that let's you know you're using the one associated with the student account versus the employee account.

Where can I get help? 

Contact the MCC Help Desk at help@mclennan.edu or (254) 299-8077. You can also visit the Learning Commons for in-person support.

Visit the MFA website at (Link TBD - will be available soon) for updates and instructional materials.

Other Duo Common Issues

Visit IT Hub Article: Duo Common Issues

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