On this page, you'll find information about commonly used Duo approval methods. We recommend having at least two devices set up so you have a backup if you do not have access to one. (To read more about Duo and how two-factor authentication works at Smith, see the Duo topics page.)
To make any changes to your Duo devices, you must access the Duo Manage Devices settings on a web browser. See How to Add a New Device below for instructions.
You'll receive an email from Duo confirming when changes have been made to your devices. This helps protect your account from unauthorized activity. If you receive an email and you have not made any changes in Duo, your account may be compromised. Follow the instructions to change your Smith account password and report the event.
Got a New Phone?
You'll need to update your device settings in Duo. See Have a New Phone for instructions.
How it Works
You can use the Duo Mobile app on multiple devices that can support it. If you use it on your smartphone, it can also be downloaded on another mobile device, like a tablet, or second smartphone that you trust, and used as a backup.
Receive a push notification on your device and approve the authentication request in the app by entering a unique code.
For more about how Duo Push works, check out the Duo Verified Push information on Duo's help site.
Device Requirements
Mobile device with a supported operating system. See Duo Mobile OS requirements:
Duo Mobile app downloaded on your device.
Add Duo Mobile to Your Devices
Follow the steps to add a device in Duo and select Duo Mobile from the list of available options. Follow the prompts to activate the app on your phone or tablet.
For more details, refer to Duo's instructions on activating Duo Mobile.
How it Works
To authenticate with a security key, plug it into the USB port on your computer, and tap when prompted by Duo to verify your identity.
For more about how security keys work, check out the Security Key information on Duo's help site.
Device Requirements
Compatible security key. Supplied by ITS or purchased on your own.
Computer with USB port.
A supported browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge, or Firefox). For version information, refer to Duo's supported browsers by operating system.
Add a Security Key to Your Devices
Note: If you have requested a security key from User Support (available in certain circumstances), you will receive set-up assistance when you pick it up.
To set up a security key, add a device in Duo and select Security Key from the list of available options, then follow the prompts.
For more details, refer to Duo's instructions on adding a security key to your devices.
How it Works
Use the fingerprint sensor on Apple MacBooks to verify your identity with Duo.
If you use Touch ID, we recommend having a second device as a backup.
For more about how Touch ID works, check out the Touch ID information on Duo's help site
Device Requirements
MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or Magic Keyboard with a Touch ID button.
A supported browser (Chrome, Safari, or Firefox). For version information, refer to Duo's supported browsers by operating system.
Add Touch ID to Your Devices
Set up Touch ID on your computer, then add a device in Duo. Select Touch ID from the list of available options and follow the prompts to add it.
For more details, refer to Duo's instructions for adding Touch ID, including how to set it up on your Mac if you have not already done so.
How it Works
When using Duo Desktop to authenticate, a window will open on your computer, asking you to approve or deny the request.
You will likely need to first select "Allow" in a browser pop-up when logging in to grant access to the Duo Desktop application.
Note: Duo Desktop is recommended for use as a backup device.
For more about how Duo Desktop works, check out the Duo Desktop information on Duo's help site.
Device Requirements
Computer with Duo Desktop installed. To install, select a link for your OS:
Add Duo Desktop to Your Devices
Download the app to your computer first using the links provided here, then add a device in Duo. You'll be prompted to connect your account when you add Duo Desktop.
For more details, refer to Duo's instructions for setting up Duo Desktop.
Note: Windows Hello is not currently available on Smith-assigned computers, but can be used on personal computers.
How it Works
Windows Hello is a security feature offered through Windows 10 and 11 that allows you to sign in with a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition. Use one of these methods through Windows Hello to authenticate with Duo.
If you use Windows Hello, we recommend having a second device as a backup.
For more about how Windows Hello works, check out the Windows Hello information on Duo's help site.
Device Requirements
A personal computer running Windows 10 or later.
A supported browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox). For version information, refer to Duo's supported browsers by operating system.
Add Windows Hello to Your Devices
Set up Windows Hello on your computer first, then add a device in Duo. Select Windows Hello from the list of available options and follow the prompts.
For more details, refer to Duo's instructions for setting up Windows Hello.
Any updates to your Duo approval methods must be done by logging into Duo in a web browser. Follow the steps below to make changes.
You can also visit Add or Manage Devices After Enrollment on Duo's help site.
Note: If you have any issues accessing your device settings, contact User Support for assistance.
1. Open a new private or incognito browser window on your computer to ensure you receive the Duo prompt and go to the Smith Portal or Workday.
2. Enter your Smith username and password.
3. When the Duo pop-up window appears, select Other options (do not approve your login yet).
4. From the list of options, select Manage Devices (typically at the end of the list).
5. Duo will then ask you to verify your identity before you can proceed. Select a method and follow the usual Duo prompts. Once verified, a list of your existing approval methods will display, along with the option to add a device.
6. Select the option Add a device. A list of new valid device types to pick from will display.
7. From the list, choose an alternate method for approving Duo requests and follow the prompts.
You'll receive an email from Duo confirming when changes have been made to your devices. This helps protect your account from unauthorized activity. If you receive an email and you have not made any changes in Duo, your account may be compromised. Follow the instructions to change your Smith account password and report the event.
Last Updated: 4/22/26