Enrolling Google Authenticator with Okta

Questions

  • How do I add Google Authenticator as an MFA factor in Okta?
  • Can I use Google Authenticator instead of Okta Verify for Bowdoin logins?
  • How do I enroll Google Authenticator with my Bowdoin account?
  • How do I set up Google Authenticator if my phone can't scan a QR code?
  • I want a backup authentication method — can I use Google Authenticator?

Environment

This article applies to all Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students who want to add Google Authenticator as an additional multi-factor authentication factor alongside Okta Verify. Google Authenticator must be installed from the App Store (iPhone and iPad) or the Google Play Store (Android) before following these steps.

Resolution

Step 1: Install Google Authenticator

Download and install Google Authenticator from the App Store or Google Play Store on your mobile device.

Step 2: Begin enrollment in Okta

  1. In a web browser on your computer, go to login.bowdoin.edu, sign in, and complete multi-factor authentication.
  2. When you reach the setup page for security authenticators, click Set up.
  3. Select your device type and click Next.

Step 3: Link Google Authenticator to your account

Follow the steps for your situation:

If your device can scan QR codes

  1. Do not click Next in the browser yet.
  2. On your mobile device, open Google Authenticator and tap the + button.
  3. Tap Scan a QR code and point your camera at the QR code displayed in your browser. The code is scanned automatically.
  4. In your browser, click Next.
  5. In the Enter Code field, type the six-digit code shown in Google Authenticator and click Verify.

If your device cannot scan QR codes

  1. Do not click Next in the browser yet.
  2. In your browser, click Can't scan.
  3. Note the string of letters and numbers displayed above the Next button — this is your manual setup key.
  4. On your mobile device, open Google Authenticator and tap the + button.
  5. Tap Enter a setup key.
  6. In the Account field, enter your Bowdoin email address.
  7. In the Key field, enter the manual setup key you noted in step 3.
  8. Tap Add. A confirmation message reading Secret saved will appear.
  9. In your browser, click Next.
  10. In the Enter Code field, type the six-digit code shown in Google Authenticator and click Verify.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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Related Articles (3)

Enrolling in Okta Verify for New Accounts
Step-by-step instructions for setting up Okta Verify on a mobile device when activating a new Bowdoin account for the first time. Covers downloading the app, logging in with temporary credentials, completing multi-factor authentication enrollment, and adding a recovery email address. Applies to all incoming faculty, staff, and students.
Set Up Okta Verify Without Scanning a QR code
Instructions for enrolling in Okta Verify when you cannot scan the setup QR code, such as when your phone's camera is broken or unavailable. Covers requesting a setup link by text message and completing enrollment after the app is installed.
Using Okta Verify for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Explains how to use Okta Verify to complete multi-factor authentication (MFA) when signing in to Bowdoin services. Covers both the push notification method and the one-time passcode method on iOS and Android devices.