Logging Into Okta for the First Time

This article provides step-by-step instructions for new Franklin & Marshall College users to complete their initial Okta account onboarding and security setup. It guides users through signing in with temporary credentials, creating a complex permanent password, enrolling in Okta Verify MFA, and setting up secondary recovery options.

Overview

This article guides new Franklin & Marshall College students, faculty, and staff through the initial setup and login process for Okta. Completing this setup establishes your digital identity, secures your account with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and grants access to the F&M Okta Dashboard and campus applications.

Before you get started

Make sure you have the following ready before starting the setup process:

• Your Franklin & Marshall College email address.
• Your temporary password or the activation email sent to your personal inbox.
• A computer or laptop to perform the initial sign-in steps. 
  If you do not have a computer make use use of a college-owned computer in a computer lab or contact ITS for a loaner computer at the Tech Lending Center
• A smartphone (iPhone or Android) to install the security app.

Video Overview

Jump to a topic in this knowledge article

• Downloading the Okta Verify App
• "Welcome to Okta!" Email
• Setting up the Okta Verify App
• Creating a Permanent Password
• Setting Up Security Question

How to

Follow these steps to set up your account and complete your initial Okta enrollment.

Downloading the Okta Verify App

1. Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) on your mobile device.
   Links:  Play store and Apple store 
2. Search for and install the Okta Verify app.
3. Do not open or configure the app yet; keep it installed on your device until prompted in later steps.

"Welcome to Okta!" Email

1. Open your College Email on your computer.
2. You will received an email welcoming to you to Okta.  Open this email on your computer not your phone.
3. Click Activate Okta Account.
   * If this email has expired clicking the link will send another welcome email.
   ​​​​​  

 

Setting up the Okta Verify App

1. On the Security Methods setup screen, locate Okta Verify and click Set up.
2. A QR code will display on your computer screen.
3. Open the Okta Verify app on your smartphone, tap Add Account, select Organization, and choose Scan QR Code.
4. Point your smartphone camera at the computer screen to scan the QR code.
5. Allow push notifications and biometrics (Touch ID or Face ID) if prompted on your phone.

Note: A confirmation message will appear on your phone screen once your device is linked successfully.

Creating a Permanent Password

1. On the setup screen, click Set up under Password
2. Type your new password into the New Password field and re-enter it into the Repeat New Password field.
3. Click Change Password or Next to confirm.

Password requirements:

• At least 14 characters
• A lowercase letter
• An uppercase letter
• A number
• No parts of your username
• Does not include your first name
• Does not include your last name

Setting Up Security Question

1. Locate Security Question on the setup screen and click Set up.
2. Choose a question from the Security Question dropdown menu or select Create your own.
3. Enter your answer into the Answer field and click Verify.

Note: Security question answers are case-sensitive.

Important Notes

• No Smartphone? If you do not own a smartphone or experience issues with your activation link, submit a Okta Assist ticket to request help.
• Keep Recovery Information Current: Ensure your secondary personal email remains active so you can self-reset your password if needed.
• Account Security: F&M ITS will never ask for your password or push verification approvals. Never accept an Okta Verify prompt you did not initiate.