Adding a security key (yubikey) to a Bowdoin account in Okta

Description

In addition to Okta Verify, some people may be assigned a hardware key that plugs into a computer as an additional factor for Okta. These keys are distributed by Information Technology for specific use-cases. These instructions will walk someone through setting up a key that was provided.

USB-A YubiKey security token USB-C YubiKey security token

Environment

Enroll a hardware token in Okta as an additional factor for security.

Adding a security key to a Bowdoin account

Once a key has been provided by Information Technology, you can add a security token in a few easy steps.

  1. Sign in to Okta at https://login.bowdoin.edu
  2. Click on your name in the upper-right corner of the screen and choose Settings
  3. Scroll down to the Security Methods section and click Setup Another in the Security Key or Biometric Authenticator section on the page.

    Image of the Security Key or Biometric Authenticator section of the Security Methods screen
     
  4. Sign in to your account when asked.
  5. On the Set up Required page, click Set up

    Image of the security methods screen
     
  6. Click Set up again on the device setup screen.

    Screenshot of the biometric authenticator setup screen.
     
  7. (Optional) If you already have one biometric authenticator, such as TouchID on macOS or Windows Hello on Windows, you will see a window asking you to log in. Don't log in. Instead, click on Other Options to be able to select the new authenticator device.
  8. You will see a window similar to the following. The language may be different but generally the same. Select Security Key and click Continue


     
  9. Plug your security key into your computer. 

    Device prompt screen shot asking you to set up a security key
     
  10. Leave this page open. It will move to the next screen once its all set up.
    1. (macOS Only) in macOS, you will be asked 2 questions.
      The first is if you want to allow access to this accessory. You will want to say Allow.

      Image of the Allow Accessory security window in macOS
      A second window will open prompting you to setup a keyboard. You can simply close that window.

      Keyboard setup assistant window.
       
    2. (Windows Only) in Windows, there may be a delay as Windows tries to install device drivers for the token. Be patient and it will install the software automatically.
  11. Look at the hardware token. It should have a light in the small circle. Tap that with any finger. Once you do, the setup window will go away and the token is ready for use.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, please contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk

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