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2-factor authentication (2FA) methods

2-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your Defence Gateway account by requiring two forms of verification before granting access.

Available 2FA methods:

Email authentication

• You may use a personal or work email (@mod.gov.uk)

• Ensure you have access to the chosen email account

• Check all folders, including SPAM/Junk, for the authentication token

QR Code authentication

• Download a compatible authenticator app from your device's App Store

• The Defence Gateway Team has tested OTP, Microsoft Authenticator, and Google Authenticator

• Note: Authy has been tested and is not compatible with our application

Trusted devices

If you access the Defence Gateway via MODNET, no additional authentication is required, as it is considered a trusted device.

Additional tips

• Always have a backup authentication method configured in case your primary method is unavailable

• Regularly update your authentication details if there are changes to your email or mobile number

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Defence Gateway account remains secure.

If you need support with setting 2FA on your account, please submit a ticket.

2-factor authentication (2FA) prompts

2-factor authentication (2FA) is a critical security measure for your Defence Gateway account. The first time you sign in, you will be prompted to set up 2FA and select your preferred 2FA method. Following that, you'll need to enter your access code each time you sign in unless you have previously selected 'Remember this device'.

2FA prompt conditions

Knowing when to expect 2FA prompts can help you navigate the Defence Gateway sign-in process smoothly.

• MODNET access: Accessing the Defence Gateway via MODNET does not trigger 2FA since it's recognised as a trusted device

• Personal device access: Signing in from a personal device will prompt you with 2FA options for identity verification

Troubleshooting tips

• Not receiving 2FA prompts on a personal device? Check if you've selected 'Remember this device' during a previous login

• Verify that your device or browser settings are not set to clear cookies or site data, which can affect the 2FA memory

If you're not receiving 2FA prompts on personal devices as expected and need support, please submit a ticket

Remembering your device

To avoid frequent 2-factor authentication (2FA) prompts when you sign in, ensure you select the 'Remember this device' option during the authentication process. This will prevent further authentication requests for up to 90 days, unless you sign in from a different device or clear your browser data.

If you need support with 2FA when you sign in, please submit a ticket.

Set up an authenticator app

Setting up an authenticator app is a straightforward process that provides an additional security layer for your account. Follow these steps for both Microsoft Authenticator and Google Authenticator apps:

Install an authenticator app

Download and install an authenticator app such as Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator on your Android or Apple device from the respective app store.

Microsoft Authenticator setup process

Install Microsoft Authenticator

1. Download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your Android or Apple device from the respective app store.

Scan the QR code

1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app.

2. Tap on the 'Add account' button (typically represented by a '+' icon).

3. Select 'Work or school account' or 'Other (Google, Facebook, etc.)' depending on your needs.

4. Choose 'Scan a QR code'.

5. Use your device's camera to scan the QR code displayed on the screen after clicking the button below.

Google Authenticator setup process

Install Google Authenticator

1. Download and install the Google Authenticator app on your Android or Apple device from the respective app store.

Scan the QR code

1. Open the Google Authenticator app.

2. Tap on the 'Begin' button if you're using it for the first time or tap on the '+' button to add a new account.

3. Select 'Scan a barcode'.

4. Use your device's camera to scan the QR code displayed on the screen after clicking the button below.

Troubleshooting tips

• Ensure your device's camera is functioning correctly and has permission to access the authenticator apps.

• Adjust the distance or angle of your device to the QR code or ensure there is sufficient lighting if the code does not scan immediately.

• Make sure your device's camera is working properly and has the necessary permissions to access the authenticator app.

If you still need help setting up your authenticator app, please submit a ticket for further assistance.

Troubleshooting email authentication

Selecting the email option for 2-factor authentication (2FA) is a secure way to access your Defence Gateway account. If you haven't received the authentication email you were expecting, follow these steps to resolve the issue.

1. Verify email address

   • Double check that the correct email address was entered. A simple typo can prevent the email from reaching you.

2. Check SPAM/Junk folder

   • Sometimes, authentication emails are mistakenly filtered into SPAM or Junk folders. Make sure to check these folders for the access codes.

3. Inspect email filters and folders

   • For email services like Hotmail or Gmail, check other folders such as Promotions or Social, as these services often sort emails automatically.

If you still need support with 2FA when you sign in, please submit a ticket.

Troubleshooting text message (SMS) authentication

If you've opted for SMS-based 2-factor authentication (2FA) and haven't received the code, there could be several reasons. The following steps will help you identify and resolve common issues.

1. Network coverage

   • Verify that your mobile device has adequate network coverage. If there's an outage or poor signal, it may delay or prevent the delivery of the SMS code

2. SMS gateway delays

   • Sometimes, delays can occur in the SMS gateway. Wait a few minutes, and if the code still hasn't arrived, try requesting a new one

3. Blocked numbers

   • Check if your mobile number has any SMS blocking services activated that might prevent receiving messages from unknown numbers

If you still need support with 2FA when you sign in, please submit a ticket.