Multifactor authentication

    Three students sharing content for a group project on a tablet.

    Multifactor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security when you log in. It checks your identity twice. First you enter your password. Then you get a request on your phone, or other device, to approve the login. This helps keep your personal information secure.

    Secure your account against cyber attacks by activating MFA today.

    Introduction to multifactor authentication

    Learn how to protect your TAFE NSW account with MFA. Watch the video below to get started.

    Setting up MFA

    Set up MFA when you have 5 to 10 minutes free. It’s best to do this during business hours in case you need support from Student Services.

    You’ll need a computer connected to the internet and the device you want to set up with MFA.

    New students

    When you log in to your TAFE NSW account for the first time, you’ll be asked to set up MFA. Simply select ‘Yes’ and follow the prompts to set up the method of your choice.

    Existing students

    If you’ve logged in to your TAFE NSW account before, you’ll need to switch on MFA in your Student Hub account:

    1. Log in to your Student Hub.
    2. Locate your name in the top right corner and select ‘Manage preferences’ from the dropdown menu.
    3. Slide the MFA switch to ‘On’.
    4. Select ‘Save’.
    5. Log out of your account.

    Next time you log in, you’ll be asked to set up MFA. Select ‘Yes’ and follow the prompts.

    Account security

    If you see a request on your device when you’re not trying to log in, it could be someone else with your password. If this happens, change your password immediately and report it to Student Services on 131 601.

    MFA devices and software

    TAFE NSW supports the following MFA software:

    • PingID
    • Microsoft Authenticator
    • Google Authenticator. 

    You can set up MFA on devices like:

    • iPhones
    • Android phones
    • YubiKey
    • Security Key. 

    Use our guides below for step-by-step instructions to set up MFA on the device of your choice. 

    Devices and software

    Apple or Android set up PingID for MFA

    Learn how to set up the PingID app on your Apple or Android device, and how to use MFA when you log in to TAFE NSW.

    Authenticator apps setup for MFA

    You may prefer to use Microsoft authenticator or Google authenticator. Learn how to set up MFA with these authenticator apps.

    YubiKey setup for MFA

    Follow these instructions if you’d like to use a YubiKey for multifactor authentication with your TAFE NSW account.

    Security Key setup for MFA

    Follow these instructions if you’d like to use a Security Key for multifactor authentication with your TAFE NSW account.

    Logging in with multifactor authentication

    When you log in to your TAFE NSW account, you’ll need your MFA device with you. If you use the same computer or laptop, you should only need to use MFA once a day. You may be asked to use MFA again if you use a private browser window or switch computers. 

    If you don’t have your device with you, you can get a one-time passcode sent to your personal email. 

    Manage your MFA devices

    You can add more than one MFA device to your account. This helps if you can’t access your main device and need another way to log in. 

    The instructions below will show you how to add and remove MFA devices. 

    Move PingID to a new device

    If you get a new phone, you’ll need to transfer PingID from your old phone to your new one.

    If you still have your old phone:

    1. Install PingID on your new device
    2. On your old device, open the PingID app.
    3. Select the ‘Settings’ cog icon and select ‘Change device.’ 
    4. You’ll see a QR code and pairing key. 
    5. On your new device, open the PingID app. 
    6. Use your new device to scan the QR code on your old device. Or, use the pairing key. 
    7. A green tick means the pairing was successful. 

    If you don’t have your old phone:

    If you don’t have your old phone, contact Student Services on 131 601, and ask them to unpair your old device. Then you can set up PingID on your new device. 

    We’re here to help

    If you need help setting up multifactor authentication, contact Student Services on 131 601.