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How to...

Set up FreeOTP for Okta


 

 For GlobalProtect VPN users only

 

Only follow these instructions if you are already using the FreeOTP app and you don't want to download another authenticator app. 

If not, we recommend using Okta Verify as your multi-factor authentication app.

 

To use the FreeOTP app as your chosen multi-factor authentication app please complete the following steps;

 

1. Visit https://okta.sussex.ac.uk/ and sign into your Okta account.

a. Log in using your IT username and password (e.g. ano123@sussex.ac.uk)

b. You may be prompted to fill in a security question if this if your first time visiting or signing into Okta.

2. Click the arrow in the top-right corner and click on Settings in the drop-down menu.

Okta dashboard settings

3. Under the 'Security Methods' section, click 'Set up' next to the Google Authenticator option.

a. You may be prompted to re-enter your password.

 Okta security measures screenshot

4. Click the ‘Set Up’ button again on the following page.

5. With the QR code open on your computer screen, open your FreeOTP app on your smartphone. 

6. [Phone] Tap the plus (+) icon in the bottom right corner and then select the QR code logo. 

a. If requested, give the app permission to use your camera. (This permission can be removed after set up is complete from your phone settings)

FreeOTP add account screenshot

7. [Phone] Position your phone in front of your computer screen so the camera captures the QR code displayed. 

FreeOTP app scanning QR code

8. [Phone] A 'Token is unsafe!' alert may appear in the app which is expected, tap 'Add Anyway'. 

FreeOTP app unsafe token

9. Click 'Next' on the Okta screen.

10. [phone] tap the 'okta.sussex.ac.uk' box on the FreeOTP app to show a six digit code.

11. Enter the code into the Okta screen before the timer wheel runs out and click 'Verify'. 

a. If the wheel is close to ending, wait until a new code is generated. 

Enter code from FreeOTP app

 

How to use 

1. Next time you log into Okta, you may be requested to enter the verification code from the FreeOTP app on your phone into the Okta webpage open on your computer.

2. You will now have two tiles in the FreeOTP app. Make sure you use the 'okta.sussex.ac.uk' tile when generating a code and the other tile when connecting to the VPN. 

 

Support

Okta SSO homepage.

Password change or reset instructions. 

Please read our full list of FAQs

If you can't find the answer you're looking for please visit the ITS Help page.

 

created on 2024-07-10 by Benoit Sharp
last updated on 2024-07-10 by Benoit Sharp