Enrolling in Okta for the First Time Using a Smartphone (Okta Verify Mobile App)

Overview

This article will go over the first time setup for the Okta Verify mobile app.

Environment

Okta Verify mobile app, mylogin.jmu.edu, MacOS, Windows

Troubleshooting/Resolution

This article assumes you have your mobile device with you and have already installed Okta Verify.

To begin Okta enrollment, first go to a computer and open the inbox of the email you provided on your student application or HR paperwork. Click the Activate Okta Account link in your "Welcome to JMU Okta" invitation email or your "Preparing for JMU Okta" invitation email. This will take you to mylogin.jmu.edu. You will then be asked to enter your eID and then your password after clicking Continue. Alternatively, you may be asked to set your password if it is the first time you have logged in. Once you have progressed past the password stage, you are ready for the steps that are listed below.

  1. During first-time enrollment, Okta asks you to set up either Okta Verify (the smartphone app) or a security key (Yubikey). Click Set Up under Okta Verify.
  2. Okta will present a QR code on your computer. Leave this screen open.
  3. On your mobile device, open the Okta Verify app, and select Get Started.
  4. Select Next.
  5. Select Add Account.
  6. Select Organization - Work, school, company.
  7. Click Skip when asked to Add Account from Another Device.
  8. Choose Yes, Ready to Scan.
  9. Use your phone to scan the QR Code on your computer screen (from the earlier step):
  10. Follow any additional on-screen instructions in the Okta Verify app to complete the enrollment process.
    • Note: It is Strongly Recommended if asked to enable Screen Lock/Face ID/Password/Biometric confirmation, to click Not Now. Adding the Screen Lock Confirmation can cause issues in authentication for some systems.
  11. When you have completed the enrollment process, Okta Verify will show an "Account Added" screen.
  12. Your phone will then display your mylogin.jmu.edu account with a six-digit randomized code beneath it. The code may be hidden/masked, and there may be an eyeball icon next to it.
    • Note: you can click the eyeball whenever you want to reveal this code in the future.
  13. On your computer, the QR code should disappear, and you will have the option to add a Security Key/Yubikey as an additional method of protection. (This step is optional)
  14. Select Continue to proceed to your Okta Dashboard, and your enrollment is complete.
Additional Information or Notes

For additional questions you can contact the JMU IT Help Desk at helpdesk@jmu.edu or 540-568-3555.

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