Audience: Fullerton College students and staff

Purpose: When traveling abroad or in areas with limited internet connectivity, you can use the Microsoft Authenticator app to access your FCNet account (e.g., [email protected] or [email protected]) offline using verification codes. This ensures uninterrupted access to campus email and Microsoft 365, even without Wi-Fi or cell data. If you rely on SMS text for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), switching to Authenticator is recommended to avoid disruptions due to unreliable phone service abroad.

Note: If you already use Microsoft Authenticator, you’re set! Safe travels!

If you use SMS text or haven’t set up MFA, follow the steps below before your trip.

Prerequisites

• An active FCNet account (e.g., [email protected] for students, [email protected] for staff).
• Know your MyGateway password (students) or FCNet password (staff).
• A smartphone (iOS or Android) with the Microsoft Authenticator app installed (available on App Store or Google Play).
• A computer with internet access to set up Authenticator before traveling.
• Your 8-digit Banner ID (e.g., 01234567 for students, found in MyGateway or enrollment documents).

Instructions

Step 1: Install Microsoft Authenticator

1. Download the App:
   • On your smartphone, go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
   • Search for Microsoft Authenticator (app icon: a blue lock with a white silhouette and QR code).
   • Install and open the app.
2. Prepare for Setup:
   • Ensure your phone and computer are connected to the internet for initial setup.
   • Keep your phone nearby to scan a QR code.

Step 2: Set Up Authenticator for Your FCNet Account

1. Access Microsoft 365:
   • On a computer, go to https://o365.fullcoll.edu/.
   • Click Sign In.
2. Log In:
   • Enter your FCNet email:
     • Students: Use your Banner ID (e.g., [email protected]).
     • Staff: Use your email (e.g., [email protected]).
   • Enter your password (MyGateway for students, FCNet for staff).
   • Click Next and complete any existing MFA (e.g., SMS code) if prompted.
3. Navigate to Security Settings:
   • Click your profile (Banner ID or name) in the top-right corner.
   • Select View account.
   • Under Security info, click UPDATE INFO.
4. Add Authenticator:
   • On the Security info page, click Add sign-in method.
   • From the dropdown, select Authenticator app and click Add.
   • Follow prompts to set up the app.
5. Link Your Phone:
   • On your computer, a QR code will appear.
   • In the Authenticator app:
     • Click the + (plus) icon in the top-right corner.
     • Choose Work or school account.
     • Scan the QR code displayed on your computer.
6. Verify Setup:
   • After scanning, the app will prompt you to enter a 2-digit number shown on your computer.
   • Enter the number in the app and click Yes.
   • If no prompt appears:
     • On your computer, click I can’t use my Microsoft Authenticator app right now.
     • Select Use a verification code.
     • Open Authenticator on your phone, find your FCNet account, and enter the 6-digit code (updates every 30 seconds) on your computer.
7. Confirm Completion:
   • Your computer will confirm the Authenticator setup.
   • Set Authenticator as your default MFA method by clicking Change next to Default sign-in method and selecting Microsoft Authenticator – notification.

Step 3: Use Authenticator Offline

1. Log In Abroad:
   • Go to https://o365.fullcoll.edu/ or other FCNet services.
   • Enter your FCNet email and password.
2. Enter Offline Code:
   • Open Microsoft Authenticator on your phone (no internet needed).
   • Find your FCNet account (e.g., [email protected]).
   • Note the 6-digit verification code (updates every 30 seconds).
   • Enter the code on the login page to access your account.
3. Test Before Travel:
   • Turn off Wi-Fi and cell data on your phone and test logging in to confirm offline codes work.

Notes

• Why Authenticator?: Unlike SMS, Authenticator generates codes offline, ideal for areas with no cell service or high roaming costs.
• FCNet MFA Restrictions: Since 2024, FCNet supports only Microsoft Authenticator or SMS for MFA (no alternate email or other apps).
• Pre-Travel Setup: You must set up Authenticator with internet access before traveling; QR code syncing requires connectivity.
• Backup Method: Add SMS as a secondary MFA method before leaving in case Authenticator fails.
• Security: Never share verification codes. Report issues to [email protected].
• Policy Compliance: MFA usage follows NOCCCD’s Acceptable Use Policy.

FAQs

Can I use SMS abroad instead of Authenticator?

SMS may fail due to roaming issues or incompatible carriers. Authenticator is more reliable as it works offline.

What if I don’t see a QR code during setup?

Ensure you selected Authenticator app in the Add sign-in method dropdown. If issues persist, contact the ACT Helpdesk.

What if my phone is lost or broken abroad?

Contact [email protected] or call (714) 992-7111 for MFA reset assistance (ID verification required).

Can I set up Authenticator without internet access?

No, initial setup requires internet for QR code syncing. Complete setup before traveling.

Does this apply to MyGateway?

This article focuses on FCNet (e.g., Microsoft 365). For MyGateway MFA, check the other relevant articles or contact the District IT HelpDesk Directly, as options may differ.

Support

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: (714) 992-7111
• In-Person: Building 500, Room 517, during business hours