Category: Tech Policy & Compliance
Prepare for Stronger Microsoft Authentication: Update Your MFA Settings Before February 2027
September 29, 2026 Written by Frank Handschuh
The SSO transition, originally planned for October 2026, has been postponed until spring 2027. Planning and preparation for the transition continue, and UDIT will provide additional information as the new timeline is finalized.
In the meantime, there is an important step all UD faculty, staff, and students should take to prepare for Microsoft’s authentication changes: review and update your Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) settings.
Prepare for stronger Microsoft authentication changes starting February 1, 2027
Beginning February 1, 2027, Microsoft is strengthening its authentication requirements and moving away from SMS and voice calls in favor of stronger authentication methods, including the Microsoft Authenticator app and passkeys.
Setting up Microsoft Authenticator now ensures you have a recommended MFA method in place and gives you an opportunity to confirm that your Microsoft MFA is working properly.
What you need to do
The process typically takes about five minutes:
Go to myaccount.microsoft.com and sign in with your University of Delaware credentials.
Under My Account, select Security Info. (If prompted, sign in again.)
Review your current MFA methods.
Set up the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device as your primary authentication method. See this article for step-by-step guidance.
Consider configuring a passkey in Microsoft Authenticator for a more secure and convenient sign-in experience.
Delete any sign-in options you no longer use.
Why update now?
Microsoft Authenticator and passkeys provide stronger protection against account compromise than traditional methods such as text messages and voice calls. Updating your settings now also gives you time to become familiar with Microsoft Authenticator before Microsoft's authentication changes take effect on February 1, 2027.
For assistance updating your MFA settings, contact the IT Support Center at (302) 831-6000 or AskIT@udel.edu.
UDIT will continue planning for the SSO transition from CAS to Microsoft SSO and will share additional details and next steps as the 2027 timeline is finalized.