News

Changes to the way you access Virtual Desktop

Wednesday, 17 March 2021
The university is introducing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) security measures to improve the security of our systems and prevent cyber criminals from gaining access.

MFA (also known as two-factor authentication) will require you to verify your identity on a second device when logging into Virtual Desktop. You will need to do this every seven days for each device you access Virtual Desktop on.

Key dates

From Monday 12 April, all Virtual Desktop users will be required to use MFA with Virtual Desktop.

  • If you already use MFA on your university Microsoft 365 account you will be prompted to use MFA with Virtual Desktop from 9am, Monday 29 March.
  • If you have not already set up MFA on your university Microsoft 365 account, you should do this as soon as possible (instructions below). From Monday 29 March you will then be prompted to sign in to Virtual Desktop using MFA.

Please ensure you have set up MFA by Monday 12 April to avoid disruption.

How to set up MFA

We recommend using a secondary device – such as a smartphone – with the Microsoft Authenticator App installed. This is the app that we recommend, as it offers push notifications and a better user experience. However, other authentication apps are available if your device is not compatible, or you don’t have a second device.

For detailed instructions, view our MFA setup guides.

Need support?

If you require help setting up MFA or have any further questions, please contact the IT Service Desk or Smart Bar.

Student Communications Officer

Communications and Marketing
University Park Campus
Nottingham, NG7 2RD

telephone:+44 (0)115 82 32353
e: studentcommsoffice@nottingham.ac.uk