Security keys are a convenient alternative to using your cell phone, office phone or email to handle the Multifactor Authentication (MFA) system used by the University of 亚洲影院 System.  

These easy-to-use keys help you log in to your computer, provide fast access to websites and applications and are more secure than other forms of authentication. Security keys help to protect against account takeovers, online attacks and phishing attempts. 

To use a security key, you must purchase one. Departments also may purchase security keys for their employees if they wish by contacting their campus IT Help Desk staff. 

Purchasing Security Keys

We recommend purchasing one of the following security keys: 

  • (the best choice for most users)

Yubico offers a for students, faculty and staff. 

Security Key Best Practices

Select a physical key. Choose keys that necessitate physical touch to operate, ensuring active participation in the authentication process. 

Avoid nano-sized keys. Do not use nano-sized keys to prevent them from being left in the computer, especially for laptops. A larger size reduces the risk of forgetting the key in the device and causing physical damage when transporting the laptop. 

Setting Up a Security Key

The registration process to set up a YubiKey is the same for Windows, MacOS (using a Chrome browser) and mobile devices. However, MacOS requires that a PIN be set on the security key prior to registering the key with Microsoft. 

If you are using MacOS with Safari, a PIN must be set on the security key before registering the key with Microsoft. You must have software installed (i.e. ) and be able to run that software as Administrator. For employees with MacOS, contact your IT staff to assist in establishing the PIN using the IT Pro workstation and process below. 

  1. Install the . 
  2. Open Yubico Authenticator and click on the shield icon on the left.  
  3. Click "Set PIN" to the right under "Manage."  
  4. Enter a PIN and click "Save." 

You will notice that it now shows "Change PIN" under "Manage."

Find details about Multifactor (MFA) Registration. 

  1. Go to  
  2. Select 鈥淪ecurity info.鈥 
  3. Click 鈥淎dd sign-in method.鈥  
  4. Select 鈥淪ecurity key鈥 and click 鈥淎dd.鈥 (You may be asked to sign in again.) 
  5. Choose 鈥淯SB device.鈥 
  6. Have your key ready to plug into the USB port and click 鈥淣ext.鈥 
  7. You will be directed to another splash page. Choose 鈥淪ecurity key.鈥 
  8. Click 鈥淣ext.鈥 
  9. Click 鈥淥K鈥 twice. 
  10. Insert the security key into the USB port. 
  11. Set a PIN that is at least eight characters. It should be a combination of numbers and letters.  
  12. Touch your security key that is still plugged in. 
  13. Click 鈥淥K鈥 to be redirected back to the 鈥淢y Sign Ins鈥 security info page. 
  14. Name your security key. This name will be displayed on the security info page so you can identify your security key. 

The key is now set up. 

Key Importance

  • Treat your security key with the same importance as a car key. 
  • Do not inscribe your name or any other meaningful personal information on the key. This includes stickers or keychains that contain personally identifiable information. 

PIN Security

  • A PIN is mandatory and should not be simplistic, such as 鈥000000鈥 or 鈥123456.鈥 
  • Avoid writing the PIN on a sticky note; instead, create a memorable code that doesn鈥檛 require physical or electronic documentation. 
  • Do not disable interfaces to circumvent the PIN prompt. 
  • The minimum PIN length is six characters, with a preference for eight or more alphanumeric characters. 
  • PINs must not contain any personal identifiers like Employee ID, Social Security number, phone number or any details related to the key owner. 

Key Custody

  • Never leave your YubiKey or other security key unattended. 
  • When traveling, keep the key separate from your laptop; for example, if the laptop is in a bag, carry the key in your pants pocket, purse or another carrying method. 

Key Storage

  • Upon stepping away from your laptop or computer, remove the key and store it securely, preferably on your person. 
  • Do not keep your security key attached to your name badge/University ID card. 

Public Use Precautions

In public settings, be cautious of onlookers when entering your PIN. Physically rotate yourself 90 degrees to shield the PIN entry from view as you type it. 

Authentication Methods

After both the security key and the Microsoft Authenticator application have been configured on the account, visit to remove the SMS and phone call authentication options from your account. These methods are less secure. 

Loss Prevention

In case of a lost or stolen key, report it immediately to the Division of IT by contacting the IT Help Desk. As soon as possible, remove the security key as an authentication method from your account. 

  1. Log in to with your alternative multi-factor method (i.e. Microsoft Authenticator). 
  2. Select 鈥淪ecurity info.鈥 
  3. Click on 鈥淒elete鈥 next to security key/method for the device that was lost or stolen. 
  4. Click 鈥淥K鈥 to confirm deletion of security key.