Working remotely - Microsoft Office 365

In order to access email and other Microsoft 365 tools we now use Multi Factor Authentication (MFA), which has a higher level of security and ensures the right person is logging in to your account.

When you are on campus and using either a network ethernet cable (wired) or Eduroam Wi-Fi (wireless), you have already securely logged in to our network so we do not ask you for any extra security checks. 

If you are off campus and want to login to Microsoft 365 services (Email, OneDrive etc.), you will need to use either an app on your smartphone/tablet or have a phone call/text message to verify the login is genuine. You can verify yourself by:

• A smartphone app that sends you a notification where you approve or deny a login (Microsoft Authenticator App)
• A standard text message
• A standard phone call

What services will I need verify myself for?

When off campus, you will need to do this for all Microsoft 365 services, including:

• Email (Outlook)
• OneDrive for Business
• Teams

Verifying by Microsoft Authenticator App

To gain access to services you will first need to download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smart phone or device.

Select the relevant link below to be taken to the app store page for your specific device:

• Android - Microsoft Authenticator
• iOS - Microsoft Authenticator
• Windows Phone - Microsoft Authenticator

How do I set up and use the app?

After downloading the app, follow the on screen instructions when accessing Microsoft 365.

When you login the app will send a notification to your phone where you would press 'Approve' to continue logging in.

For instructions how to set up and use the app please see our detailed guide.

Verifying by text message or phone call

If you do not have a smart device you can complete the process using a phone call or text message from a standard phoneline.Instructions on how to set this up this can be found in our detailed guide under the 'Telephone set up' heading.

Need help?

Contact the Service Desk on x6262 (0118 378 6252 from a mobile), reading.ac.uk/dts or dts@reading.ac.uk where our friendly staff are always happy to help.