Deciding which devices to register with Duo

Introduction

We recommend registering at least two devices.

• If you have at least two available, you'll always be able to use Duo, even if your default device is unavailable — for example, if you forget your smartphone at home, or lose it.
• Don't have a second device? We recommend using the Duo Mobile app to pre-generate mobile passcodes you could use later to login in a pinch.

The following device types work with Duo:

• Smartphones and tablets
• Non-smart cell phones (like flip phones)
• Landline phones (like home phones)
• Specific types of hardware tokens
• Devices with biometric verification features

Keep reading to learn more about these options.

Which devices should I register?

Smartphones and tablets

Smartphones are by far the most popular type of device to register with Duo because they're the easiest to use during login, and most people already carry a smartphone. At the University of Oregon, more than 90% of Duo users have registered a mobile device. Many login methods are possible with a smartphone or tablet after you install the free Duo Mobile app from Duo security:

• Duo Mobile's Verified Push feature: Receive a notification on your device, enter the three-digit code that appears on your computer on your device, and tap Approve
• Generate a passcode: Enter digits into the Duo passcode field and click Login (these are great because they work even if your phone doesn't have an Internet connection!)
• Pre-generate passcodes for emergencies: You can use the app to pre-generate passcodes you can use later as a backup way to login if your device is unavailable
• Receive a phone call from Duo: Answer and press 1 to login
• Receive passcodes via SMS (text message): Enter digits into the Duo passcode field and click Login
• Biometric verification: Once registered, these work for logging in to services on the device with the biometric feature. 

Non-smart cell phones

Your mobile doesn't have to be smart to help you stay secure with Duo! You can also register non-smart cell phones and use these login methods:

• Receive passcodes via SMS (text message): Enter the six digits into the Duo passcode field and click Login
• Receive a phone call from Duo: Answer and press 1 to login

Landline phones

Since most landline phones on campus have moved to Microsoft Teams which requires two-factor authentication, we do not recommend that you use your UO extension for this option. Other options include:

• If you use a Cisco IP Phone for your extension, you can have Duo call that line.
• You can also have Duo call either your cell phone, a tablet, or use a hardware token.
• You can register your home landline if you work remotely.

To use a landline phone, you'll just answer a phone call from Duo, and press 1 to login.

Hardware tokens

Hardware tokens are recommended for users who have no other devices to register with Duo.

• These tokens are small fobs about the size of a key fob. They generate passcodes the same way the Duo Mobile app does.
• To use a token, you'll press a small button on the token and wait for the passcode to appear. This can sometimes take a few moments. When your passcode is ready, enter the digits into Duo's passcode field and click Login.

For more information about tokens, including how to get one from UO, please see this related article.

Can I or do I have to register a computer?

• Mac desktops and laptops with Touch ID can be registered within Duo.
• Personal Windows PCs with Windows Hello can be registered within Duo.

For more information, please consult the Using Biometric Verification with Duo Universal Prompt article.

How do I register?

See the related article Getting Started with Two-Step Login (Duo) for instructions.