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Ways to Use Okta
| Method |
How It Works |
Device |
Data Usage / Cost |
Limitations |
| Okta Verify mobile app |
Okta's free mobile application displays a login request notification on your smartphone or tablet. Tap Approve to authenticate, or use a generated passcode. |
Mobile Phone or Tablet |
Each notification is only 2KB of data. |
Requires cellular data or WiFi for notification; no data required for passcodes |
| FIDO2 hardware token |
Plug the token into your device and press the button when prompted. |
USB FIDO2 token |
FIDO2 tokens can be purchased by you. |
Requires USB ports |
Okta Verify desktop app
(Students only) |
Okta's application will display a prompt on the computer you're logging in with when the FastPass option is selected. |
Windows Computer or MacOS Computer |
No extra cost |
Can be configured after mobile app is setup |
FAQ
I don't have a phone that can run the Okta app. What can I do to login?
- You can get a hardware token to login. Code generating FOBs do not work with Okta. You will need to get a FIDO 2 compliant security key. DoTS does not sell these devices but we recommend ordering a device from Amazon. DoTS can help you setup the device over the phone or in our Service Center.
I was using Okta but got a new device and can't login
- You'll need to call DoTS(715-425-3687) for a assistance with resetting your Okta device list so you can add the new phone.
- DoTS will need to ID proof you using your password security question or in-person via an approved ID card
I left my phone at home and need to sign in
- After ID proofing you, DoTS can provide a bypass code for one-time login allowing you time to retrieve your device. Give us a call at 715-425-3687
Project Notes
Along with other campuses that are part of the Universities of Wisconsin, UW-River Falls is implementing the Okta platform for logins with most services that utilize your Falcon Account. The first phase of this project will replace the login page experience with a branded login powered by Okta.
Why is this happening?
Using the Okta platform makes it easier for the Universities of Wisconsin to support the centralized services that all campuses use, such as the Canvas learning environment, the Human Resources System (HRS), and eventually the replacement for HRS: Workday. The Okta login service includes additional layers of security protection, including email notifications to both your UWRF and account recovery email addresses when your login is used from new locations, as well as a more secure DUO prompt. Using Okta also allows UWRF to integrate single sign-on more seamlessly and with additional services that don't currently support it.
When is this happening?
- As of April 1st, 2025, new applicants are required to begin setting up Okta with no Duo option.
- As of April 16th, 2025, all Falcon Accounts have the option to sign up for Okta MFA to access UWRF Resources, but it will not be required.
- As of October 30th, 2025 all Falcon Accounts will be required to use Okta MFA. This means that if you login with your Falcon Account to a service, you will need Okta to access it. Duo will no longer be available. The only two exceptions are Slate and MyApps.
What is happening with DUO?
At a future date, UWRF will support use of Okta's multi-factor (MFA) login services, eventually replacing the DUO service that we currently use. This will provide cost savings to the university, but it requires additional preparation to fully support the MFA options that the Okta platform provides. Okta provides improved resistance to phishing and more flexibility on second factor options.
What is MyApps?
The myapps.uwrf.edu site is built on Okta and will eventually replace the MyUW site during late spring 2024. The project team at Universities of Wisconsin is working on defining what applications will show up on the new site and the UWRF web team is evaluating what role the site will play in the overall function of our web resources.
