Email MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) Setup

Summary

To improve the security of college resources, Nashville State Community College requires Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for employee email access. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring confirmation from a trusted mobile device when signing in. NSCC supports the Microsoft Authenticator application for MFA registration and authentication.

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Important Information

Important: If you previously configured MFA on a device that you no longer have access to, you must contact the Service Desk to have the old device removed before registering a new one. Call 615-353-3678 for assistance. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Prerequisites

Before beginning setup:
  • A smartphone or tablet capable of running Microsoft Authenticator.
  • Access to your NSCC employee email account.
  • A second device (computer or laptop) to complete the web registration process.
  • Internet access. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Step 1: Install Microsoft Authenticator

  1. Download Microsoft Authenticator from:
    • Apple App Store
    • Google Play Store
  2. Verify that the publisher is listed as Microsoft before installing.
  3. Open the application after installation. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Note for Apple Devices

When searching the App Store, the first result may not be the correct application. Confirm the publisher is Microsoft before downloading. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Step 2: Prepare the Authenticator App

  1. Open Microsoft Authenticator.
  2. Select Add Account or choose the three-dot menu and select + Add Account.
  3. Select Work or School Account.
  4. Allow camera permissions when prompted.
  5. The device is now ready to scan a QR code. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Step 3: Begin MFA Registration

Complete one of the following actions:
  • Visit the institution's MFA registration page, or
  • Sign in to your employee email account from outside the campus network.
After signing in:
  1. Enter your employee email credentials.
  2. When the More Information Required screen appears, select Next.
  3. Continue selecting Next through the setup prompts.
  4. When the Microsoft Authenticator page appears, select Next again. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Step 4: Scan the QR Code

  1. A QR code will be displayed on the screen.
  2. Use Microsoft Authenticator to scan the QR code.
  3. After successful registration, an account labeled NSCC with your email address should appear in the app. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Troubleshooting QR Code Issues

  • QR codes remain active only for a limited time.
  • If an error occurs while scanning:
    1. Select Cancel.
    2. Return to the setup screen.
    3. Select Next to generate a new QR code.
  • If the QR scanner is unavailable in the app, repeat the Authenticator setup steps and verify camera permissions are enabled. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Step 5: Verify the Connection

  1. A two-digit verification number will be displayed on the computer screen.
  2. A notification will be sent to your mobile device.
  3. Enter the displayed number into Microsoft Authenticator.
  4. After successful verification, the Next button will become available.
  5. Select Next to continue. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Step 6: Complete Registration

  1. When setup is complete, select Done.
  2. You will be redirected to your email account.
  3. MFA is now enabled for your account. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Support

Contact the Service Desk if:
  • You no longer have access to a previously registered device.
  • You are unable to scan the QR code.
  • Authentication notifications are not received.
  • You encounter account access issues.
Phone: 615-353-3678 [servicedesk.nscc.edu]

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Details

Details

Article ID: 20079
Created
Fri 7/31/26 12:19 PM
Modified
Fri 7/31/26 12:19 PM