Personal or Public Device for MFA

Overview

When using Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), it's important to choose the right device type: personal or public. This choice helps keep your login safe and makes sure Duo works the way it should. Understanding the difference helps protect your account and keep your device secure.

Getting Started

This guide explains the difference between personal and public devices in Duo MFA and how to choose the correct one during login.

Personal Device

A personal device is one you own or use regularly, like your phone, tablet, or home computer.

1. Used by you and not shared with others.
2. Safe to remember your Duo settings and device preferences.
3. Choose this option to reduce repeated Duo prompts for 30 days (if enabled).

Public Device

A public device is a shared or public computer, like one in a classroom podium, computer lab, or library.

1. Used by many people and shared with others.
   
2. Choose this option to keep your account more secure on shared devices.

Additional Details

• Always choose "Public Device" when you are unsure or using a shared computer.
• The "Remember me for 30 days" feature only works with personal devices and supported browsers.
• Clearing browser cookies or switching browsers will reset the "Remember me" option.