Get a Duo Bypass Code and Activate Device - New Users

Owned by
McDonnell, Kim
Last updated: Jun 21, 2024 by
Beeram, Siva Shankar Reddy
4 min read

Are you new to UAlbany and Duo and are now being prompted for a Bypass code when attempting to access a UAlbany service? 

The Bypass code prompt means you have enrolled your device but your device is not activated with the Duo Mobile app. You must finish setting up your device in your account by doing both of the following:

  1. Obtain a Bypass code, and
  2. Activate your Duo mobile device!

Instructions to finish setting up your mobile device in your account

NOTE

Once you obtain the bypass code, be sure to finish Step 2 to complete the activation of your device.  Do not merely visit the UAlbany service you were trying to obtain access to or you will need to repeat the bypass code process every time you need to use a UAlbany service.

Obtain a Bypass code

  1. Go to UAlbany's Confirm Your Identity page.
  2. Enter your NetID, SSN or Albany ID, and select 'Next'



  3. Answer your personal Security Questions and select 'Next'


  4. Select 'Request Duo Bypass Code'



  5. Copy and store your Bypass code in a secure location.   Take note of the provided Bypass use-case scenarios with helpful links. 



  6. Next, be sure to continue the steps below to activate your mobile device!

Activate your mobile device

  1. Go to the Duo Device Portal and log in with your NetID and Password.



  2. Enter your newly generated Bypass code into the box and select 'Verify'



  3. Add a new device by following the onscreen prompts.

    1. To add a new device select Add a device.



  4. Select the recommended Duo Mobile option.



  5. Enter your phone number and select 'Continue'



  6. Verify your phone number and select Yes, it's correct.



  7. Download Duo Mobile if you haven't already done so.  Once downloaded, select Next.



  8. Decision Time: Is your preference to Email yourself an activation link (easiest method) or Scan the QR code? Follow instructions in the table below for either method.

    Scanning the QR code can be tricky. You must scan from within the Duo mobile app (e.g. NOT your device's camera app).

    1. Open the Duo app and tap the blue Add+ button:
    2. Tap 'Use QR code' to get the ability to scan:
    Scan QR CodeEmail Activation Link
    1. Open the Duo Mobile App



    2. With the app open, tap the blue Add+ button on the top right:



    3. Tap 'Use QR code' to scan:



    4. Several screen prompts will appear and your device will be named 'UAlbany', tap Save.
    5. Once the scan is successful we can see success screen.



    6. Now select 'Continue' once we get Added Duo Mobile.



    7. Your newly activated device type and phone number are displayed and saved.


    1. Select 'Email me an activation link instead'.



    2. Enter an email address that you can check on your mobile device and select 'Send email':



    3. Check you email, if you did not receive email select 'Send another email'



    4. Check your email from your device and click the activation link sent to you.


    5. Several screen prompts will appear on your device. Your device will be named 'UAlbany', tap Save.
    6. Your newly activated device type and phone number are displayed and saved.




    Need more help? Contact the ITS Service Desk.