New staff and students at the University of Leeds are automatically enrolled in Duo, the University’s two-factor authentication (2FA) system. Duo adds an extra layer of security to your account and requires setup before you can access protected systems such as Microsoft 365 and Minerva.
This guide explains how to enrol for Duo and which devices you can use.
1. Before You Begin
- You will need your University credentials (username and password).
- Check your personal email for instructions on setting your password and accessing your account.
- Recommended device: Mobile phone with Duo Mobile app (available on Apple and Android app stores.)
2. Log in to Microsoft's Security Info site
- Go to Microsoft’s Security Info website https://aka.ms/ssprsetup and log in with your University username and password.
- Pick your university account if it is listed, or click on 'Use another account' and enter your 'username' followed by '@leeds.ac.uk'. Click 'Next'.]
- Enter your password and click 'Sign in'
- if you have not downloaded Microsoft Authenticator already, you will be asked to install Microsoft Authenticator on your device.
- Click Next and follow the on screen instructions
3. How to Enrol for Duo
Watch this video quick start guide, or follow the steps below to enrol. If you can't see the video, view it directly on the Duo guide.
- Go to https://www.microsoft365.com/?auth=2 or log in to Minerva.
On first login, you will be prompted with
Click Next,
Then click on "Other Options" at the bottom of the dialog box
Then on the next screen pick "Exterrnal MFA"
Then Click "Next" on the next screen
Then follow the on screen instructions on how to set up Duo.
Click "Get Started" to continue set up of Duo.
- When Duo setup begins:
- Click Get Started.
- Select your device type (mobile phone recommended).
- Click Duo Mobile (Recommended).
4. Setting Up Duo Mobile
- Duo Mobile is available for iOS 15 or newer and Android 11 or newer.
- It works with Wi-Fi or mobile data and can generate passcodes offline.
- Enter your University username followed by @leeds.ac.uk.
- Click Next, then Get Started.
- Select Duo Mobile (Recommended) option
- Select your country and enter your mobile number (without leading zero).
- For tablets without phone service, click I have a tablet.
- For tablets without phone service, click I have a tablet.
- Confirm your phone number.
- If the number is linked to another Duo account, verify ownership via SMS or phone call.
- If the number is linked to another Duo account, verify ownership via SMS or phone call.
- Install Duo Mobile on your device > Scan the QR code shown on screen to complete setup
- If you're using the same device that the QR code is showing on, you won’t be able to scan it. Just choose “Get an activation link instead” and enter a personal email address, and activation link will be emailed to you.
- Check your personal email for your activation link (if you have not received the activation link email, please check your spam folder) if you have not received the email please click on the link "Send another email"
- You will receive an email saying "To activate the app, click and open this link with Duo Mobile" Click on this link
- You will be presented with the screen below asking you to "Activate Duo Mobile" Click this.
- This will add your device into the Duo app.
- If you have scanned the QR code, this will add your device to your Duo app. click "Save "
- You will then be presented with a screen confirming you have added your device to Duo, Click "Continue"
- You will then be asked to log in with Duo Click "Log in with Duo"
- You will be presented with a three digit code on your device screen, Enter the three digit code into your Duo notification.
- Once you have entered the code, you will then be asked if this is your Device, Click "Yes, this is my device"
- You will then be told you have successfully MFA'd into Duo.
You can now log in to Duo-protected applications with Duo Push or with a Duo Mobile passcode.
5. Other Authentication Methods
If you cannot use Duo Mobile:
- SMS text message
- Hardware token
See: Duo – Choosing and Using Your Authentication Device.
6. Troubleshooting
- If you cannot see the video guide, view it directly on the Duo website.
- If your phone number changes or you lose access to your device, contact the IT Service Desk.
Frequently Asked Questions❓
Do I need Duo before accessing University systems?
Yes, Duo must be set up before logging into protected services like Microsoft 365 and Minerva.
Which devices can I use for Duo?
Mobile phones (recommended), tablets, or hardware tokens.
What if I don’t have Wi-Fi or mobile data?
Duo Mobile can generate offline passcodes.
Can I use Duo on older devices?
Duo Mobile requires iOS 15+ or Android 11+.
Where can I find more help?
See Duo FAQs