Account Authentication Goes Passwordless

Account authentication has always been one of ECU’s most important security strategies for users.

To make verification convenient as well as secure, ECU now offers several authentication technologies. These solutions make account authentication quick and convenient while still providing robust security protections.

Simplify your digital life: go passwordless

While you’re still required to maintain your 15-digit ECU password, there are several authentication methods you may utilize to access resources.

• Microsoft Authenticator App. Used on your mobile device, Authenticator provides multiple convenient and powerful authentication capabilities.
  • Passkeys are created within the app that provide very secure authentication without having to enter your password. Passkeys are strongly recommended because they are phishing-resistant and offer security comparable to a Yubico security key while adding the convenience of being managed through the Authenticator app on your mobile device.
  • Passwordless phone sign-in is also available. While not as secure as authenticator app passkeys or Yubikeys, this authentication method is convenient and eliminates the need to enter your password. Passkeys are the newer, more secure alternative to passwordless phone sign-in.
  • MFA methods used with your username and password.
    • TOTP passcode. Local, time-based, one-time code generation (no internet required) on your mobile phone or tablet
    • Number matching
• Windows Hello for Business (WHfB). Log in to your ECU-managed Windows 11 computer using a PIN or biometric, and you’re simultaneously logged in to your ECU SSO resources for convenient and quick access.
• Yubico security key. This USB stick replaces your phone as an authentication device. Great for use on campus in areas that experience weak signal strength or when you forgot your cell phone. A security key is phish-resistant, is not susceptible to verification interception and replaces your ECU password for most logins using a six-digit PIN.
• Phone call. Landline (phone call) or mobile (call or text).

What you can do now

First, visit the IT Knowledge Base | Accounts category to learn how easy it is to set up the MS Authenticator app, a Yubico security key or one of ECU’s other passwordless options.

Next, assess your MFA methods at My Sign-Ins | Security Info | Microsoft.com. You may decide that now is the time to go passwordless.

Yubikey: our newest and most secure method

ECU has approved the Yubico security key with 2FA that connects via USB-A or USB-C, FIDO U2F/FIDO2 certified available through the following vendors:

• Departments purchase through the PORT Office Depot (preferred) or Amazon punchout.
• All users can purchase from any retailer offering the Yubico security key, USB-A or USB-C. Prices range from $25 – $60 depending on version and retailer.
• Both products offer secure passkey technology and NFC (near field communication), a wireless technology for mobile devices.
• See these IT Knowledge Base Yubikey resources to get started.

Need Assistance?

Call the IT Service Desk at 252-328-9866 or visit your nearest Pirate Techs walk-in location.

Post expires at 8:14am on Saturday March 27th, 2027