Non-NPS EXERN Users

EXERN Account Transition & MFA Setup
 

Before Transition Date

To prepare for the transition, sign in to the Microsoft's Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) setup page using your EXERN credentials to set up and manage MFA.

• When you log in, you will be prompted to enroll in MFA and Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR).

• Use your EXERN username specified in the email that was sent to you (firstname.lastname@exern.nps.edu) and credential.

  • If you forgot your password, reset it here: EXERN Self-Service Password Management.

MFA Enrollment Methods

Method 1 of 2: Microsoft Authenticator App

1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.

   • If you prefer a different app, select “I want to use a different authenticator app” and follow the instructions.

   • To use SMS or phone call verification, choose “I want to set up a different method” and select Phone.

Setup Instructions:

1. Open the Authenticator app and allow notifications.

2. Tap Add Account > Select "Work or School" Account > Tap Next.

3. Scan the QR code displayed on your screen using the app.

4. Tap Next to proceed.

Verification:

• Approve the notification sent to your app by entering the number shown.

• Tap Next once approved.

• Confirmation: Notification Approved > Tap Next.

Method 2 of 2: Phone Verification

1. Enter your country code and phone number.

2. Receive and enter the 6-digit code sent to your device.

3. Confirmation:

   • "Verification Complete. Your phone has been registered."

   • "Success!" > Tap Done

Post-Setup

• You may be prompted to stay signed in.

• Visit your My Sign-Ins Security Info page to manage your settings.

• Going forward, sign in using your EXERN username (firstname.lastname@exern.nps.edu).
   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security measure that offers an additional level of protection for accessing your personal information and sensitive university data by requiring an additional form of identification at login. There are three forms of authentication (Something you: Have, Know, or Are), two of which we employ at NPS:

Something you know:

• Password/Pass phrase (i.e., NPS Username / Password)

Something you have:

• Security Token or App (e.g., Cellphone with Microsoft Authenticator)
• Verification Text, Office Phone Call, Email
• Smart Card (e.g., Government-issued CAC card)

2. Why is MFA required for EXERN accounts?
To improve security and streamline access. MFA helps protect accounts from unauthorized access and is now required for authentication to services.
 
3. What NPS services are affected by this change?
The following services will require authentication with MFA:

• Jira

• Wiki

• Liferay

• Subversion

4. What is the deadline to complete MFA setup?

5. What happens if I don’t set up MFA by the deadline?
You may lose access to Jira, Wiki, and other NPS services until MFA is configured.

6. What should I do before setting up MFA?

• Use a laptop or desktop computer to complete the initial set-up.

• Have your mobile device with you during set-up to scan a QR code and install the mobile app. 

• During set-up of the mobile app, you will need to allow access to your mobile device's camera when asked.

7. Who can I contact for help?
If you need assistance, please contact webmaster@nps.edu.