Help and Knowledge Base

YubiKeys are a secure alternative to smartphone-based authentication (e.g., SMS codes or authenticator apps). They are ideal for individuals who:

• Don't own a smartphone
• Prefer not to use personal devices for work or school authentication
• Require a backup option in case their smartphone is unavailable
• Want a stronger passwordless authentication

Important: UMGC only supports Yubikeys 5 FIPS Series as the recommended security key. While you may use alternative security keys, please note that UMGC cannot provide technical support or assistance for these applications. For setup and troubleshooting of alternative keys, refer to their specific instructions and support resources.

Register YubiKey

1. Sign-in to https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info with your UMGC student email address and password.
2. Click + Add sign-in method.
3. Select Security Key.
4. Click Next. 
5. Choose USB Device.
6. Have your key ready, and click Next.
7. Insert the YubiKey into USB port on your computer.
8. Touch the flashing Y button. 
   • Your PC will redirect you to a new window to finish setup
   • Note: For more detailed instructions please visit your key manufacturer's website.
9. Create a new PIN for the YubiKey (minimum 6 digits). 
10. Click Next
11. Touch the YubiKey again to complete the setup.
12. Click Allow to Allow this site to see your security key. 
13. Enter a security key name with naming convention of KeyVendor - AppName. (Example: YubiKey - UMGC)
14. Click Next.
15. Complete the configuration by clicking Done.
16. Change the default sign-in method to allow either Authentication app or hardware token-code under the Security Info section. 
17. Click Confirm to complete the registration.

Notes

• You can register multiple YubiKeys as backups.
• If your YubiKey is lost, ensure an alternate MFA method (e.g., phone-based authentication) is configured.

Please reach out to technical support at UMGChelp@umgc.edu, 888-360-8682, or the UMGC Help Center if you need further assistance.

Additional Resources

• Security: How do I update my smartphone number?
• Security: How To Enroll in Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) using Authenticator App
• Security: How to set up the Authenticator App - Firefox Browser Extension
• Security: How to set up the Authenticator App - MS Edge Browser Extension
• Security: How to set up the Authenticator App - Google Chrome Browser Extension
• Security: How to Set Up MFA with a Non-Smartphone Device
• Security: How to Enroll in MFA in Safari Browser