To improve our security posture, we will be enforcing Duo Security for students as a two-factor authentication solution into our existing IT infrastructure.
Important dates
Enrollment emails will go out March 27, 2023. Our primary method of communication about this rollout will be email, so please keep an eye out for emails on this topic. We are phasing the enforcement of Duo security by college: NVU on March 20, 2023, VTC and Castleton on March 27, 2023, and CCV on April 3, 2023.
What is Duo Security?
Duo Security is a company that provides a cloud-based software service that utilizes two-factor authentication to ensure secure access to services and data. Learn more about two-factor authentication.
What is two-factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication provides a second layer of security to any type of login, requiring extra information or a physical device to log in, in addition to your password.
By requiring two different channels of authentication, we can protect user logins from remote attacks that may exploit stolen usernames and passwords.
The factors may include:
 | Something you know: A unique username and password. |
 | Something you have: A smartphone with an app to approve authentication requests. |
 | Something you are: Biometrics – like your fingerprint or a retina scan. |
Why do we need two-factor authentication?
Login credentials are more valuable than ever and are increasingly easy to compromise. Over 90% of breaches today involve compromised usernames and passwords.
Two-factor authentication enhances the security of your account by using a secondary device to verify your identity. This prevents anyone but you from accessing your account, even if they know your password.
How will Duo change my login experience?
When logging in to an application that is protected by Duo, you will still enter your username and password.After inputting your login information, Duo requires you to complete a method of second-factor authentication.
Duo does not replace or require you to change your username and password. Think of Duo as a layer of security added to your pre-existing login method. More information on the rollout of Duo is coming soon.
Do you still have questions?
Visit the FAQ page on the VSC IT Support website.
If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please put in a ServiceDesk ticket or email cybersecurity@vsc.edu.