Using multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is used to better protect against cyber attacks, and to ensure your personal information stays secure. It adds an extra layer of security to your login process as it checks your identity twice before letting you log in.
New students
If you're logging in for the first time, follow these steps to set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your devices:
- Log into your TAFE NSW account.
- Select ‘Yes’ to activate MFA.
- Follow the prompts to set up PingID or your chosen method of MFA.
Existing students
If you’ve previously logged in, follow these steps to set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your devices:
- Log into your TAFE NSW account.
- Locate your name in the top right corner of the Student Hub and select ‘My Details’ from the dropdown menu.
- Slide the MFA switch to ‘ON’.
- Log out of your account, then log back in.
- Follow the prompts to set up PingID or your chosen method of MFA.
Logging in with multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Along with your password, you'll also need to enter a code sent to your phone or another device. This additional step confirms your identity before giving you access.
To log in to your TAFE NSW online account or campus computers, you’ll need to use MFA.
There are two steps:
- Enter your TAFE NSW username and password.
- Confirm your identity using MFA with PingID.
Introduction to multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Learn how MFA works and protects you against cyber crimes.
PingID software
PingID is the multi-factor authentication (MFA) software TAFE NSW uses to verify your identity when accessing your account and our systems.
You can set it up on devices like:
- iPhones
- Android phones.
To use PingID on your phone, make sure you have enabled a passcode, pattern lock, or biometric lock.
To download MFA, your devices require these compatible operating systems:
- iOS 11.0 or later for iPhones, iPads, and iPods
- Android 8.0 or later for Android devices.
Get started with PingID
When you log in to your TAFE NSW account for the first time, you will be prompted to register with PingID.
To register, follow the prompts and enter your username and password.
Once registered, you will be asked to enter your username and password again, to activate multi-factor authentication (MFA) and protect your account.
Follow the prompts and click ‘yes’ to activate MFA on your device.
Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your iPhone or iOS device
Watch this video to learn how to set up MFA on your iPhone or iOS device. For more detailed instructions, download the information sheet for iPhone and iOS.
Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) on Android
This video walks you through the process of setting up MFA on your Android device. For step-by-step guidance, download the information sheet for Android.
Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) with Yubikey
Learn how to configure MFA with a Yubikey in this video. For more help, download the information sheet for setting up Yubikey.
Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) with an Authenticator app
This video shows you how to set up MFA using an Authenticator app. To follow along, download the information sheet for the Authenticator app.
Frequently asked questions
Cyber attacks are becoming more advanced. MFA adds an extra layer of security, making sure that even if someone gets your password, they can’t log in without your device.
We very strongly recommend that you use MFA to add more protection to your account.
While MFA is optional, we strongly recommend it for better security. If you want to opt out, select ‘No’ when prompted with the ‘Activate MFA’ screen and continue using password protection only.
For any MFA-related issues, call the TAFE NSW Student Technology Service Desk on 131 601 (Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm).
Students who are deaf or hard of hearing can seek help through the National Relay Service
You will need to transfer PingID to your new device.
If you still have your old device follow these steps:
- On your new device, download and install the PingID App.
- On your old device, open the PingID App, click on ‘settings’ (wheel-cog icon), then click on ‘change device’. You will see a QR Code and Pairing Key.
- On your new device, open the PingID App and scan the QR Code or enter the Pairing Key shown on your old device. You should see a green tick for a successful pairing.
- When you next log in, you will be prompted to authenticate on your new device.
If you no longer have your old device:
- Contact the Student Technology Service Desk on 131 601 and request that they unpair your old device.
- Once this has been done, you can set up your new device with PingID.
If you use the same computer/laptop, then it's likely you'll only need to use MFA once a day. You may be prompted to use MFA when using a private/incognito browser window, or if you change computers during the day.
We suggest that you set up your MFA access when you have 5 to 10 minutes free. It’s best to set MFA up during business hours so the student technology service desk can help you with any issues.
To avoid opening PingID every time you log in, enable your PingID notifications. Approvals can be managed without opening the PingID app by selecting ‘continue’ and ‘yes it is me’. If the option times out, you can use the 6-digit code displayed in the notification.
If you forget your MFA device, you can follow these instructions to generate a one-time passcose. It will be sent to your personal email address.
Yes, and you can manage these via your student portal. Watch our video to manage your MFA settings for more detailed instructions.
Yes, you can. Follow these downloadable instructions to add an extra device for MFA to your account.
We’re here to help
For any MFA-related issues, call the TAFE NSW Student Technology Service Desk on 131 601 (Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm).
Students who are deaf or hard of hearing can seek help through the National Relay Service.