This article is for users who are prompted to complete Multi‑Factor Authentication (MFA) during sign‑in and need to understand the expected MFA process.
In this article:
- What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
- Setting up MFA
- Signing in with MFA for the first time
- Future sign‑ins (After MFA is set up):
- Lost access to MFA
What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your AWARD® account. In addition to your username and password, you are required to provide a second form of verification. This is usually a one time code generated by an authenticator app on your mobile device.
As part of the MFA process, you may also be provided with recovery codes, which can be used to access your account if your authenticator device is unavailable.
Even if your password is compromised, MFA helps prevent unauthorised access to your account.
Setting up MFA
Setting up MFA for your AWARD® account is easy. Here's how to do it:
Before you start
You’ll need a mobile device with an authenticator app installed. Commonly used apps include: Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, and FreeOTP.
Signing in with MFA for the first time
- Access AWARD®
Open your organisation’s AWARD® login URL.
(You may notice the login screen looks slightly different from before — this is expected when MFA is enabled.) - Enter your credentials
Sign in using your usual username and password.
- Set up MFA
If this is your first MFA sign‑in, a QR code will be displayed on screen.
Use your authenticator app to scan the QR code and follow the on‑screen instructions.
Note: The setup screen will time out, so complete this step promptly.
- Name your device
You’ll be asked to provide a Device Name.
Choose something recognisable, such as Work PC or Office Laptop. - Enter the authentication code
Once setup is complete, you’ll be taken to the authentication screen.
Enter the one‑time code shown in your authenticator app.
- You will be presented with a set of recovery codes.
Important! : Save these codes somewhere secure before continuing.
Recovery codes provide an alternative method of signing in if you lose access to your authenticator device.
You will be asked to confirm that you have saved the codes before setup can be completed.
After MFA setup is complete, a confirmation screen will be displayed.
Select Back to Application to continue signing in to AWARD®.
Future sign‑ins (After MFA is set up):
- Enter your username and password as usual
- When prompted, enter the current one‑time code from your authenticator app
This extra step is required each time you sign in and helps keep your account secure.
Lost access to MFA
If you no longer have access to:
- Your authenticator application, and
- Your recovery codes
you will need assistance from the AWARD Helpdesk.
Raise a support ticket and request an MFA reset.
After the reset:
- You will be required to complete MFA setup again.
- A new authenticator device can be registered.
- A new set of recovery codes will be generated.
Related articles:
- MFA issues
- AWARD® authentication option
- Using An MFA recovery code