Summary
Microsoft is retiring SMS (text message) and voice call authentication for Microsoft 365 on February 1, 2027.
To prepare for this change, Winona State University is transitioning Microsoft 365 users who currently rely on text messages or phone calls for MFA to approved authentication methods.
Winona State University recommends the Microsoft Authenticator app, but other approved authentication methods are also available.
Information Applies To
Faculty, Staff, Current Students, New Students, Alumni, Retirees
Who Needs to Take Action?
You need to take action if your current Microsoft 365 multi-factor authentication (MFA) method is:
- A text message (SMS)
- A phone call (voice verification)
No action is required if you already use an approved MFA method, such as the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Reset Dates
Due to the number of users affected, Tech Support will reset MFA for accounts that only use text messages or phone calls in phases. Our goal is to have all affected accounts moved to an approved MFA method by the start of the Spring 2027 semester.
After their applicable reset date, users must set up an approved MFA method to continue accessing their Minnesota State Microsoft account.
- November 16, 2026: Retiree & Student accounts
- November 30, 2026: Employee accounts
- December 7, 2026: Alumni accounts
Update Your Security Information
To review your current MFA settings or add an approved authentication method:
- Open the Microsoft Security Info page.
-
Sign in to Microsoft online using your Minnesota State Microsoft account.
Username
- Students: StarID@go.minnstate.edu
- Employees: StarID@minnstate.edu
Password
-
Verify your identity using your current MFA method.
Choose and Set Up Your MFA Method
Choose one of the following supported MFA options:
- Microsoft Authenticator app (recommended): Use the app on your mobile device to approve sign-in requests. Follow the step-by-step instructions in the Set Up Microsoft Authenticator App for MFA Knowledge Base article.
- FIDO2 security key: Use an approved physical security key with biometric verification, such as a fingerprint. Contact Tech Support for assistance with setting up a FIDO2 security key.
- Windows Hello: Use facial recognition, a fingerprint, or a PIN configured on your Windows computer. Contact Tech Support for assistance with setting up Windows Hello.
- Passkey on a Mac using Touch ID: Use a passkey saved on your Mac and verify your identity with Touch ID. Follow the instructions in the Create a Passkey on a Mac Using Touch ID Knowledge Base article.
Trouble Signing In To Microsoft 365?
If you are unable to access your Microsoft 365 account because you cannot complete MFA verification, contact WSU Tech Support for assistance resetting your authentication methods.
Visit
- Somsen Hall 207 (Winona Campus)
- Coffman Center 122 (Rochester Campus)
Call
Learn More
- Contact WSU Tech Support for additional assistance or questions.