How To: Configure USB Dongle / Security Key

This article will walk you through the steps to set up and configure the USB Dongle / Security Key to meet the Multi-Factor Authentication requirements for FSW system access. The security key is needed anytime you need to log in to an FSW system and will need to be carried with you. Security key utilizes NFC for mobile device authentication access.

 

Once your account has been set up with the Dongle authenticator, you will need to follow the steps below to register the key for the 1st time. 

First Time Set-Up

You will log in just as you always have with your username/password. 

On the next window, click on the "Register" button.

 

Then, Click "Windows Hello or external security key."

Next, click on the "OK" button.

You will be prompted to insert the Dongle into the USB port to continue the setup.  

Please, insert the Dongle into a USB port on your computer. 

Now, create a PIN for this security key. We recommend a PIN with a minimum of 4-6 unique characters.

Touch the security key when prompted. You will be asked to do this twice.

Your computer will recognize the Dongle, and you will be prompted with the following options:

1) Change the device's name (you can put your name).

2) Click the"OK" button."

3) Click on the "Register" button.

Next, complete the following steps. You will need to follow these steps each time you log in using SSO (Single Sign-On). 

1) Click on the "Sign in with Security Key" button. 

2) Once you see the following message, please place your finger on the green light of the Dongle to authenticate the key.

  

3)  Please place your finger on the green light of the Dongle to authenticate the key.

After a moment or two, the system will load. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

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• Is Multi-Factor Authentication required to get into my college PC or laptop? 
  • No, it is only required to access an application that uses the College's Single Sign On (SSO), such as Canvas, MyFSW, or Banner.
• Do I need to use it every time I log in?
  • Yes, you will. It's part of the extra security layer that helps protect our entire FSW community. 
• How do I request a USB Dongle?
  • Please submit a request using the following form Technology Check-Out Request.
• Can I use a USB Dongle and App Authenticator?
  • Yes, enhancements have been developed to allow the use of both.
• Do I need a Device Name?
  • It is not required, but it's a good habit to name the device with a brief identifiable name you can identify easily in the future.
• What Multi-Factor Authentication method is best for me?
  • That’s a great question and one of personal preference. We are providing multiple options so you can choose the one(s) that is most convenient for you. Your options are:
    • Mobile phone app
      • Flexible
      • Requires your phone/device to be with you at all times to access college applications
      • Requires you to use your device
    • Google Chrome extension
      • Convenient
      • It has to be installed on the machine you are using to access the applications.  If it is a different machine, it might not have the authenticator extension app installed.
      • It can be used in conjunction with the mobile phone app
    • USB Dongle
      • Requires no use of personal devices
      • You can use the other authentication methods as well now alongside this option.
      • It cannot be used through a remote desktop session (RDS).  
• Will I be able to manage my own devices, or am I required to work through the Information Technology helpdesk?
  • You can currently manage your MFA account through MyFSW. There you can add, remove, and review the devices associated with your MFA account.
• I get an error message when trying to set up an authenticator
  • We are here to assist and answer any questions you may have. There are many ways to contact IT, and you can use our live chat and submit a helpdesk ticket at fsw.edu/helpdesk, email helpdesk@fsw.edu or call us at 239-489-9202