Skip Navigation

Multi-Factor Authentication

Home > Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-Factor Authentication is required for all MyESCC accounts.

Do I have to set up multi-factor authentication?

Yes. All students, regardless of the types of classes you take, are required to set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) to access the MyESCC portal and the apps in the portal, such as Canvas, Gmail, SIS and Navigate.

What is multi-factor authentication?

MFA is another layer of online security that requires you to verify you are who you say you are. This additional security measure helps protect students’ and the college’s data. There are several MFA options available. Some require use a mobile device that you always have with you.

What should I consider as I set up MFA?

  • There are several options. Choose the option that’s best for you. We also recommend setting up a back-up method.
  • Before starting to set up MFA, check your personal information in SIS, making sure your personal email address and mobile number are up-to-date. Some MFA options access this information each time you log in.
  • Give yourself time. The set-up process can take several minutes. Don’t try to set it up right before a class starts or an online assignment is due.

What if I need help setting up MFA or logging into the MyESCC portal?

Staff in the college’s IT Help Desk are available to assist you. The IT Help Desk may be reached by phone (757-789-1771, 757-789-1788) or email (ithelpdesk@es.vccs.edu).

MFA Options and Set-up Guides

Options requiring a mobile device, such as a cell phone, you keep with you:

  • Push Notifications – This option uses an app, called RapidIdentity, which is downloaded to your mobile device. Each time you log into the MyESCC portal, a notification will appear on your mobile device, asking you to approve or deny access to the portal. See the tutorial.
  • SMS – This options sends SMS (texts) to your mobile device. Each time you log into the MyESCC portal, you’ll receive a text with a code you’ll need to enter as part of your portal login. See the tutorial.
  • Google Authenticator – This option is set up with your mobile device and creates a unique time-based one-time passcode (TOTP). Each time you log into the MyESCC portal, Google Authenticator will create a new TOTP that you will need to enter as part of your portal login. See the tutorial.
  • Additional options for MFA may be found on the Virginia Community College’s support page.

Options using desktop/laptops:

  • WinAuth – This option is set up on a desktop or laptop that uses Windows. Each time you log into the MyESCC portal, WinAuth will create a new TOTP that you will need to enter as part of your portal login. See the tutorial.
  • OTP Manager – This option is set up using an Apple (Mac) desktop or laptop. Each time you log into the MyESCC portal, OTP Manager will create a new TOTP that you will need to enter as part of your portal login. See the tutorial.

MFA for Dual Enrollment Students

March 1st Dual Enrollment students will also have MFA enforced using the Pictograph (one image) MFA methodology with alternate email MFA as a backup.

Dual enrollment students are automatically loaded to use the Pictograph method.

Need help updating your mobile number or personal email in SIS? See the tutorial.

Back to top