Overview
Logging in with Duo two-factor authentication (2FA) requires you to enter a CIT password and then use a Duo-configured device to confirm your identity.
Getting Started
To get started, contact the help desk to request enrollment (and to get a CIT password if you don't already have one). We will send you a link for setting up a Duo account.
During setup, Duo asks some questions about the device you want to use. Smartphone and tablet users are asked to download the free Duo Mobile app.
When your setup is complete, follow the instructions below to log in to the system, such as HPC super computers, the NCAR virtual private network, or others that accept Duo 2FA.
Authentication Methods
There are four ways of authenticating with Duo:
Duo Push (preferred)
The app sends a request (a "push" notification) to your phone or tablet, asking you to approve or deny the login request.
Duo Mobile passcode
When you can't receive a push notification, enter both your CIT password and a numerical passcode from the Duo app, separated by a comma.
Phone call
Enter your CIT password and the word "phone," separated by a comma, and you will receive a phone call with instructions.
Duo/YubiKey 4
Some NCAR/UCAR staff use Duo authentication with a YubiKey 4 token. After inserting the token in your USB port, enter your CIT password and a comma, then lightly touch the gold button on your token. The examples below use the push notification method of authentication. See How to Use Append Mode for more information on other methods.
Logging in with Duo
Logging in with Duo two-factor authentication (2FA) requires you to enter a CIT password and then use a Duo-configured device to confirm your identity.
Enter your username.
Enter your CIT password.
When you approve the request, you will be logged in.
The new Duo prompt also allows you to change your preferred method for approval as well as manage your devices.
From the main prompt click on the "Other options" link and you be presented with a new menu for managing your account.
The last method that you chose to login will be your default method. Choose another option and it will be the default.
There is also a handy Need Help? option for common questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't have your smartphone with you and need to authenticate with Duo, you can use a secondary device to login.
- If you have already added a secondary device to your Duo account, maybe an office phone or home landline: Choose the "Other option" link, then select Phone call. (See image below.)
- If you have not added a secondary device, call CISL at 303-497-2400 and we will add one for you.
If you request a Duo push but do not get one, check the following before trying again:
- Make sure your phone is not in airplane mode and that you have a good wireless or cellular data connection.
- Make sure you are entering your CIT password correctly at “Token Response.”
- If you just received a new temporary password, did you enroll and change it on the CIT Password Portal? If you haven’t done that yet, go to the portal and create your own unique password.
- Open the Duo app on your phone and make sure the UCAR logo appears (see image below). If you don’t see it, call 303-497-2400 for re-enrollment assistance.
- Open the Duo app and “pull down” it to refresh it.
- Restart your phone to complete the failed Duo app updates.
If your Duo push and passcode options only work intermittently, this might indicate that you have a weak connection at times.
- First, select Phone call if you need to log in immediately (see image below). After you answer the call, press any key on your phone as instructed.
- Follow up by calling CISL at 303-497-2400 if the intermittent problems continue. Your phone may need to be reactivated.
Duo User Guides
For additional information, see the following links or contact the help desk for assistance.