Setting Up 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) for Your Downstate NetID Account

Downstate requires the use of 2-factor authentication (2FA) for account security. Users who enter a user name and password at a login page must enter a second item such as a numerical code sent to or generated by a mobile device. 

You cannot use your Downstate email account with an email application on your phone or computer until you complete 2FA setup.

To set up 2FA authentication

  1. Use a web browser to log into your Downstate email account for the first time at https://portal.office.com
  2. Enter your Downstate email address as your user name.
  3. Select Work or School account.
  4. Enter your current NetID password.
  5. The next page notifies you that "More information is required". Select Next.
  6. Enter your cell phone number.
  7. Choose to send a code to your phone.
  8. The next page offers a text entry box. Enter the six-digit code displayed on your phone and select Next.

If the setup is successful, you will be offered the choice to "Keep me logged in" before your inbox is displayed.

Answering Yes to this option has both risks and benefits:

  • Choosing “Yes” leaves a persistent authentication cookie in the browser that can simplify the login process for up to 30 days. However, anyone who can access your browser could potentially access your email and other systems more easily.

  • Choose “No” if this is a shared or public computer.