Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) - User guide

Overview

Multi-Factor Authentication requires you to authenticate yourself via two or more means when logging in.  You may be familiar with password-based authentication, where you enter a password known only to you as a way of proving your identity.  However, passwords are not foolproof for a variety of reasons, and so MFA creates an extra layer of security by requiring you to prove your identity via additionals means.


Authenticator app

Skills Base achieves this by asking you to input a code generated on an app on your mobile device.  These are generally called "authenticator apps", and you probably already use one or more of them to authenticate with other services.


One popular choice is the Google Authenticator app, which is available on both iPhone and Android devices:


Another popular choice is the Microsoft Authenticator app, which is also available for both device types:


Chances are you already have one of the apps installed on your mobile device.


Enabling MFA

If MFA is enforced for your account, you will be prompted to register your authenticator app upon your next login.  Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.


If MFA is not enforced for your account, you can enable it in your "Preferences" page:

  • Click the profile icon at the top right of the screen and select "Preferences" from the drop down menu if on a desktop computer, or expading the menu and select "Preferences" from the profile name drop down on a mobile device.
  • In the MFA section, click "Enable" and follow the on-screen instructions.