PingID as Multi-Factor Authentication
OU IT utilizes PingID for multi-factor authentication (MFA), which is required for mobile and off-network access to enterprise software and services like your university email, PeopleSoft, Canvas, and the OU VPN.
Multi-factor authentication is a critical component of a secure IT environment that enables you to verify your identity using your phone or other personal device and prevents unauthorized users from logging into your account, even if they know your password.
Enrolling PingID Authentication Methods
Enroll in PingID now to eliminate any disruptions to your access. View enrollment instructions. There are several different ways to authenticate using PingID, such as a mobile app, a desktop app, a phone call, text message, or using a physical security token (such as a YubiKey).
OU IT recommends registering several different methods of authentication, such as installing the app on a mobile device and registering a phone number to receive passcodes via call or text (SMS). Users who choose to register just one device/method have an increased risk of being unable to access their accounts in a timely manner due to losing access to the single device/method. If you are unable to use the PingID application on your phone, having the desktop application may be a good alternative solution.
- Install the mobile app for Apple or Android devices, including ipads.
- Install the desktop app to authenticate using your Windows or Mac desktop/laptop.
- Register your phone number to receive a passcode via phone call or SMS (text message).
- This method is an excellent backup method to have, even if you rarely use it. If you get a new mobile device, but keep your number, this method will continue to work.
For more information:
Failing to Approve a PingID Prompt Authentication
For sites and applications that require PingID, ignoring or not approving the authentication prompt will fail to load the site or application in question. This can result in one not being able to access the service, or content updates not being downloaded.
- In Outlook, this may mean that you will not receive your latest mail.
- In applications like OneDrive or Teams, you may receive messages like "There was a problem signing you in" or "We're sorry, we've run into an issue". This may also lock up the application and make it difficult to exit while it waits on the needed PingID approval.
- For websites, your screen may hang or stop loading after submitting your user name and password as it waits for approval from your PingID authentication method.
- For the OU VPN, the connection attempt will hang for a period of time, and then fail.
- The OU VPN will send an authentication prompt to your primary PingID method immediately after you input your correct OU password.
- Unlike other uses of PingID, the VPN does not notify the user that it is waiting for a PingID confirmation, and a backup/secondary method cannot be selected.
Common Issues After Enrollment
- Mobile App
- Not Receiving Push Notifications
- Check your phone's notification settings. You may also opt to open the app and approve any prompts.
- Check to ensure the app is still installed on your mobile device.
- Authentication Request Map is Incorrect
- If you are attempting to sign into an OU system/service that requires PingID MFA and the app shows that the authentication request is coming from a location that is different than your physical location, this can feel quite concerning. In most cases, this is because the device you are using to log into the system/service is unable to communicate your exact location. This could be because your device is connected to a VPN that is routing your connection attempt through a different location or that your device is only connected to cell data (not WIFI), and the cell data is being routed through an alternate location.
- Computer App - You must locate and open the app on your computer in order to view the passcode needed to authenticate.
- SMS Text or Voice Passcode - If you are not receiving a phone call or text, ensure that your phone is not set to "Do Not Disturb".
What To Do About An Authentication Prompt You Didn't Expect
If you receive a PingID app prompt or a call/text with a code when you are not actively attempting to log into something, this is a significant cybersecurity concern. PingID prompts and text/voice codes are only sent when your current OU password has been used to attempt to log into a university system/service. If this happens, please do the following.
- Deny The Request
- If the prompt is on the PingID app, deny the prompt.
- If you are being asked to provide a passcode on a form, via a text, via a phone call, or in an email, DO NOT provide it. OU IT will never ask you to provide a PingID passcode in those methods.
- Change Your OU Password
- Visit one.ou.edu to change your OU password immediately.
- Select your photo or initials in the top right of the screen.
- Select "Account Settings", then the "Security" tab.
- Select the "Change Password" option.
PingID Support and Help
If you need additional assistance installing or setting up PingID or if you have set up PingID in the past and are now having issues with the app or have lost/changed your device, please feel free to stop by one of our service centers (Norman | Oklahoma City | Tulsa) or contact us via phone.