Overview
It is important to generate and print (or write down) passcodes to have as backup in case you don’t have access to your primary device. If you don’t have a backup, you’ll be locked out of Bowdoin College systems. Get your backup codes BEFORE you need to use them and store them in a secure location, like your wallet.
Note: If you plan on getting a new phone, make sure you generate backup codes before you get rid of your old device. If you don’t, you’ll have no way of authenticating and adding your new phone to your Duo account and you’ll have to call the Service Desk at
207-725-3030 for help. We can not accept bypass code requests via email.
How do I generate Duo backup codes?
- Go to MyDuoDevices.bowdoin.edu.
- Sign in and authenticate through the Okta single sign-on portal.
If you are already signed in to another Bowdoin service, you may not have to log in to Okta again.
- Click on Enter a Passcode
- In the blue bar at the bottom, click on Text me new codes
- You will receive a text message with 5 codes. Write down these codes and place them someplace secure. Each code can only be used once and they do not expire. If you run out, simply generate more.
NOTE: If you regenerate new codes, all previous codes are invalidated and must be discarded.
How do I use my backup codes?
- When you are prompted to authenticate with Duo, click Enter a Passcode. If you normally receive push notifications to your device, you may need to select Cancel before this option is available.
- Enter a passcode from your list and click Log In. Once you've used a code, cross it out to separate it from your valid codes.