Overview
When accessing F&M’s Google applications, you will be prompted to confirm your identity on your mobile device, in addition to entering required passwords. This is called multi-factor authentication (MFA) and is used to (1) add more security and (2) make sure you’re the only one who can access your account – even if someone else knows your password. F&M uses Google 2-Step Verification to safeguard against any unauthorized access to important data.
It is called 2-Step Verification because you need to validate your identity (1) by entering your password and (2) by confirming on your mobile phone through a push or text. While there are a few different ways to confirm your identity, we recommend using your personal mobile phone.
The Google Account Help site also provides detailed help on 2-Step Verification here.
How To
The first time you use a Google app connected to your F&M account, you will be prompted to select a method to confirm your identity.
Set up Google 2-step verification for the first time
1. On your computer open your browser (Chrome is recommended).
2. Go to gmail.fandm.edu
3. Click Get Started.
4. Enter your F&M ID and password, as prompted.
5. Choose Phone Number and Google Prompt. Note: There are other options you can choose as explained here.
To set up your phone number
- Enter it in the space provided.
- Keep in mind that this phone number will only work when you have a cellular connection, and it may not work when traveling in other countries.
- You will receive text messages with a 6-digit code you need to enter to verify access to your F&M Google apps.
To set up the Google prompt
- If you don't already have the Google app on your phone, install it from your App Store.
- Open the Google app, and set up your F&M account on it.
- Tap Google Account Settings (picture/initial in upper right in a Google app).
- If you already have an account you access on your phone, you will need to tap the down arrow next to your current account name to add your F&M account.
- Tap Add Another Account.
- Enter your F&M email and password as prompted.
- You will open the Google app to receive a push notification to verify access. Tap Approve.
- Note: This is the recommended way to verify access to your F&M Google apps. You don't need to have access to cell service, and the verification comes directly through the app.
Routine sign-ins
When you log into one of your F&M Google apps in the future, you will enter your NetID and password, and use Google 2-step verification when prompted. You will use the method of verification you chose in the set-up to verify it’s you.
When you access a Google app, using your NetID and F&M password, and are asked to make sure it's really you trying to sign in:
1. Use your Google verification method to approve. If you installed the Google app, then open it and tap Approve. In the event that doesn't work, you will receive a text message with a 6-digit code you need to enter to verify access.
2. You are securely logged in.
Remember for future log-ins
You can avoid future verification code prompts during the two-step verification process to remember your device as a trusted one. (But DO NOT set this when you are using a shared device in a lab or publicly-accessed computers.)
- If logging in on your own personal computer: Check Don't ask again on this computer/device to note a trusted device.
- If logging in on a shared computer -- like in a lab or shared space -- do not check the box to remember verification.
Change your 2-Step verification settings
You can change your settings from Google Account Settings.
1. With a Google application open, click Google Account Settings (picture/initial in upper right in a Google app).
2. Click Manage Your Google Account.
3. Click Security.
4. Scroll to How you sign in to Google.
5. Click 2-Step Verification.
6. Review, change, or edit any of the verification methods listed. Your changes update immediately.
The Help Desk
Need more help? Contact us!
- Enter a Service Request here on this page to route your request to the right expert.
- Call the Help Desk at 717-358-6789.
- Stop by and see us in Martin Science Library.