Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) involves two different authentication methods that are performed one after the other to verify that someone or something requesting access is who they are declaring to be. The first authentication is when a user enters their username and password. Then instead of immediately gaining access to the account, the user will be required to provide another piece of information. This information could be something you know such as answers to security questions, something you have such as a smartphone, or something you are such as a fingerprint. Two-factor authentication helps secure your account as someone who gains knowledge of your password would still not be able to access your account without also having an additional method of proving their identity.
The University of Rhode Island suggests that two-factor authentication be enabled on both your Microsoft O365 and Google accounts (@uri.edu). For each of these accounts, there are multiple methods of two-factor authentication including text messages, phone calls, or backup codes. You are able to choose what type of authentication method you would like to use, but you are required to have at least one enabled.
The easiest way to get this set up is to watch the two videos below, but as always if you need assistance please connect with the IT Service Desk.
We also have a knowledge base article on Google 2-Step verification.