Setting Up Multifactor Authentication
Need Help?
Visit the ITS Support page for locations and hours of operation.
For immediate assistance, call 505-224-HELP (4357).
Open a support request through help.cnm.edu.
All CNM users are governed by the Information Technology Use Policy.
About Multifactor Authentication
CNM accounts require a password and multifactor authentication (MFA) to help protect personal information and reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification when signing in. For example, after entering your username and password, you may be asked to approve a sign-in notification or use a security key to verify your identity.
View a video from Microsoft explaining MFA and how to authenticate using the Microsoft Authenticator mobile app.
Jump to a section on this page:
- Important MFA Changes for Students
- Setting Up a Strong MFA
- Manage Your Authentication Methods
- Frequently Asked Questions
Important MFA Changes for Students
Beginning January 2027
Microsoft is retiring text message and phone call verification as MFA methods. These methods will no longer be available as Microsoft transitions to more secure authentication options that better protect against interception and fraud.
Faculty and staff already use strong MFA methods. Beginning Spring Term 2027, students will also be required to use a stronger authentication method to access CNM systems when not on campus.
Important: After January 7, 2027, students who have not enrolled in an approved MFA method will be unable to access CNM email, Brightspace, or Banner until they complete setup.
Setting Up a Strong MFA
Before January 7, 2027, students should set up a secure MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator smartphone app. If you do not have a smartphone, please contact ITS Support to set up an alternative method.
Microsoft Authenticator allows you to use a simple, fast, and highly secure two-factor MFA.
Benefits include:
- Free mobile app
- Setup takes about five minutes
- Works with Wi-Fi, even without a cell phone signal
- Provides secure sign-in notifications
ITS Support is here to help you set up strong MFA. Stop by the following locations for in-person assistance.
- Main Campus: Tech Connect, Room 114 in the Student Resource Center (SRC), Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The following locations are available for walk-up support on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. through the start of the Spring term.
- Montoya Campus: Richard Barr (RB) Open Computer Lab
- Westside Campus: MJG Lobby
Manage Your Authentication Methods
You can update, remove, or add authentication methods at any time.
- Visit the Microsoft Security Info page.
- Select Change or Delete next to an existing method.
- If you want to add another authentication method, select Add sign-in method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Microsoft is retiring text codes and voice call verification because they are less secure than using an authenticator app or a physical security key.
Students will be unable to access CNM email, Brightspace, or Banner until they enroll in an approved MFA method.
You may use a security key (YubiKey) as an alternative authentication method. Please reach out to ITS Support for assistance obtaining and setting up a security key.
Call 505-224-HELP (4357) or stop by the Tech Connect on Main Campus in the Student Resource Center, Room 114. Enter on the north side of the building, near the Quad.
No. Microsoft Authenticator is used only to verify your identity during sign-in and does not access personal content such as photos, messages, or contacts.
Yes. If you have both a student account and an employee account, you can add multiple CNM accounts to the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Most users can complete setup of Microsoft Authenticator or YubiKey in approximately five minutes.