Duo Multi-Factor Authentication
Duo is Hamilton College's multi-factor authentication (MFA) service. It adds a second layer of protection when you sign in to a Duo-protected system, so your password alone is not enough to get in.
- Your password is the first factor: something you know.
- Your phone or security key is the second factor: something you have.
During login attempts, Duo will automatically send an authentication request via push notification (a message that pops up on your smartphone) to the Duo Mobile app on your smartphone. If your password is ever stolen or guessed, Duo essentially blocks the login because the attacker cannot approve the push notification on the device you're using as a second factor.
Duo is required for all Hamilton students, faculty, and staff. Your account is enrolled for you, so there is nothing to request. You will be prompted to register a new device the first time you sign in to a Duo-protected system.
Download and Begin Using Duo
- For smartphone users, download the free Duo Mobile App on your smartphone
- iOS: Search Duo Mobile in the App Store and download and install the app.
- Android: Search Duo Mobile in the Google Play Store and download and install the app.
- If you lack a smartphone, open a ticket with the LITS Help desk or call 315-859-4181 during business hours. You will need to request a hardware token to use in place of a mobile device.
Benefits of DUO
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Duo protects your account and your data. Getting into your account requires two things: your password and the device you've registered with Duo. A password alone isn't enough; if someone steals it, they still can't approve the Duo prompt without your phone or token. And if someone gets hold of your phone or token, they still can't get in without your password. One factor can fail without exposing your account. (At Hamilton, most applications and websites authenticate through Shibboleth, which handles the username/password step before Duo prompts for the second factor.)
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Duo protects Hamilton College. It adds a layer of security across Hamilton's accounts, applications, and data.
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Duo offers flexibility. You can approve sign-ins through the free Duo Mobile app, a hardware token (a small key fob-style device), or a phone call or text message.
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Duo is simple to use. It integrates cleanly with the services you already use and takes only a few seconds per sign-in.
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Last updated: September 15, 2026
Contact
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Help Desk
198 College Hill Road
Clinton, NY 13323
Fri 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sat - Sun 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
