What is the SSO/MFA Modernization Project, and what changes should you expect when signing in?
Detailed Information
Table of Contents
The SSO/MFA Modernization Project is an update to how you sign in to University of Maine System (UMS) services.
It improves both the login experience and account security.
Single Sign-On (SSO) is a way to use one username and password to access many different services.
For more information, please visit: What is Single Sign-On (SSO)?
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security method that requires more than just your password to sign in.
For more information, please visit: What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
- To improve account security
- To provide a more consistent sign-in experience
- To support modern authentication methods like passkeys
- To reduce login issues and confusion
- A new, updated sign-in experience (SSO)
- Improved Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) options
- Support for modern sign-in methods like authenticator apps and passkeys
- Clearer and more consistent login screens
No. You will continue to use your current UMS account and password.
If you already set up MFA using Duo, no changes are required at this time.
If you have not set up MFA, you will be asked to do so. Communications will be sent to users who need to set up MFA.
INFO: If prompted, follow the on-screen instructions to confirm or update your security information.
Passkeys are a modern authentication method that replace passwords with cryptographic keys stored on a device, letting you sign in using biometrics like fingerprint or face recognition. They're more secure than passwords because they can't be phished, reused, or leaked in data breaches.
UMS systems that use SSO will be updated. Some legacy systems that are not integrated into SSO will not use the new sign-in experience. Any owners of those systems should contact IT to start an SSO Integration Request.
- A refreshed login screen
- Possible prompts to confirm or update MFA
- Fewer repeated login prompts across services
- Double-check your UMS account and password
- Complete any MFA prompts
- Try again using a different browser or device
WARNING: Do not approve MFA requests that you did not initiate. If this happens, deny the request and change your password.
Visit the UMS IT Knowledge Base or contact the UMS IT Service Desk for assistance.
Please use the Feedback option below ("Was this helpful? Yes or No) or contact the IT Service Desk.
Environment
- University of Maine System (UMS) accounts
- SSO-enabled websites and services
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)