2-Step Verification:
- is an extra layer of security for your account.
- helps keep out anyone who shouldn’t have access to your account by requiring you to verify access to a trusted device or token after you enter your password.
Because 2-Step Verification requires both something you know (your password) and something you have (a trusted device or token), it’s much harder for hackers to gain access. This way, even if your password is stolen, a hacker won’t be able to sign in to your account without the physical device or token.
Setting Up Google 2-Step Verification with the Google Authenticator App
1. To set up Google 2-Step Verification with the Google Authenticator App on your phone, launch the Google Play Store (Android) or the App Store (iPhone) and download the Google Authenticator app.
2. On your computer, log into your NEIU account at https://nmail.neiu.edu. Select Nmail on the top right corner of the window, then select Manage your Google Account.
3. Click on the Security option located on the left side of the screen.
4. Select Add Authenticator App on the computer.
5. Select Set Up authenticator.
6. A QR code will be presented on the computer screen. On your phone, launch the Google Authenticator app and click on the “+” symbol.
7. Scan the QR code using the Google Authenticator app on your phone and click Next.
The Google Authenticator app will automatically register your email and generate a code.
8. Enter the code from the authentication app into the Google window on your computer as shown below and click Verify.
Your Google account window will confirm your 2-Step Verification authenticator is now added.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to use Google 2-Step Verification?
A: Yes. Google 2-Step Verification is designed to protect your user account against phishing attacks. For this reason, you will not be able to access your user account unless you have Google 2-Step Verification enabled.
Q: Do I need a smartphone to use Google 2FA?
A: You need a smartphone to use the Google Authenticator app OR
A: You can register your telephone number to receive Google 2-Step Verification SMS codes sent to your regular phone if you do not have a smartphone.
Q: Where can I download the Google Authenticator app?
A: From Google or Apple Store.
Q: I already have an authenticator app on my phone but not the Google Authentication app. Can I use my existing authenticator app?
A: No. You will need to download the Google Authenticator app.
Q: I am a student employee and already use DUO Multi-Factor Authentication. Do I still need to use Google 2-Step Verification?
A: No. As a student employee, you do not need to use Google 2-Step Verification. When your employment ends, you will need to use Google 2-Step Verification to protect your user account.
Q: Do I still need to use a strong password if I have Google 2-Step Verification?
A: Absolutely! A strong password is the first protection against password cracking. The stronger your password, the harder it is for hackers to guess it.