Why is MFA important?
Cybersecurity is an institutional priority at SAIT. During a typical month, SAIT experiences more than 100 attempted hacks. If a password is compromised, anyone with the password can access everything the account holder can access. MFA helps protect our online accounts and data and is particularly important to support remote work and access.
MFA goes beyond a username and password, requiring you to choose a secondary authentication method to access applications — for example, confirmation through a mobile device or by entering a code.
The following MFA methods are available:
- Use the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone or tablet. With the app, you can approve login attempts (when your phone is connected to the internet) or retrieve authentication codes when your phone is offline. This is the most convenient and preferred method for MFA at SAIT.
Changes are coming to multi-factor authentication
SAIT is updating how you verify your identity when signing in. Beginning Feb. 1, 2027, text message (SMS) and phone call verification will no longer be supported for SAIT multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Already using Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator for your SAIT account? No action is required, provided it is registered and working for your SAIT sign-in.
If you are currently receiving text messages or phone calls to verify your SAIT sign-in, you need to switch to an authenticator app before the deadline. This applies to students, staff, contractors, and other affected SAIT account holders.
Important dates
| Jan. 25, 2027 | Complete the transition by this date to allow time to resolve any issues. |
| Feb. 1, 2027 | SMS and phone call will no longer be supported. If you have not transitioned, access to SAIT systems may be interrupted. |
Why is this changing?
MFA adds a second layer of protection beyond your password, helping confirm that it is really you signing in. Text messages and phone calls are more vulnerable to phishing and fraud than stronger authentication methods. Updating how we authenticate helps protect SAIT accounts, personal information and systems such as Microsoft 365, Teams and SharePoint.
Which app should I use?
Microsoft Authenticator is SAIT’s preferred and supported app. If you cannot use Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator is a permitted alternative; SAIT does not provide technical support for the Google Authenticator app.
How will MFA be activated?
Once MFA has been applied to your account, you will be prompted to set up MFA to access Microsoft 365 applications and related systems.
MFA readiness checklist
- Before accessing any Microsoft 365 products and applications on the day of your MFA implementation, log out of all devices (desktop, PC, phone, etc.) that access Microsoft 365 through your SAIT email account.
- If you’re using a desktop or laptop, close all apps, browsers and tabs when initially setting up MFA to avoid being prompted to authenticate for each Microsoft 365 session that’s open.
- If you’re using a mobile device, such as your phone, as your second authentication method and you’re being asked to authenticate multiple times, close the email application on your mobile device and relaunch the application or reboot the phone.
- Some users may not be able to sync their Apple or Android mail emails on a native mail app after MFA is enabled. In this case, deleting and re-adding the email account should fix the problem. Alternatively, use the Microsoft Outlook app to sync emails on your phone. It creates a much more secure connection.
MFA set up
When setting up MFA, you will be prompted to choose an authentication method. You will be asked to accept an authentication request or provide a code from your chosen method. Authentication will also be required when logging in from a new device or a different location, and may be required to access systems authenticated through Microsoft.
Download the Microsoft Authenticator app
Download the authenticator app on your smartphone or compatible device if you do not already have it.
You may be asked to verify your identity during setup. Follow the on-screen prompts and contact the ITS Service Desk (below) if you cannot complete registration.
Activate MFA
You will receive a prompt on the device you use to log in.
Enroll in MFA
You will be taken through the setup automatically.
Receive a digital code via the app
Input the code into the pop-up screen. From here, you can proceed to access Microsoft 365 applications.
For more information, visit the ServiceNow self-service portal and review:
Troubleshooting and support
Getting a new phone or having trouble signing in?
You can register a new device for MFA if you still have access to your existing MFA method. If you no longer have access to it, contact the ITS Service Desk for an MFA reset.
You will need to register MFA again if you:
- Get a new smart phone
- Factory reset your current phone
- Uninstall and reinstall Microsoft Authenticator
MFA registration does not transfer to a new device, even when the new device is restored from a backup.
See a full list of frequently asked questions on the Self-Service portal.
Contact us
ITS Service Desk
MB027, Stan Grad Centre, SAIT Main Campus
- Phone
- 403.774.5200
- its.support@sait.ca
Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.
SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.
We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.