Set up a security key for MFA

A security key, also known as a hardware token, is a device you can plug into your computer or use with devices with NFC (near-field communication) capability to access your account. Most modern smartphones and tablets have NFC capability.

At the University of Bristol, we support YubiKey security keys.

On this page:

Before you start

Set up a security key 

Set up

To set up your security key, you will need a computer or laptop with a USB-C port. 

  1. In a web browser (please use Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome), navigate to https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info.
  2. Log in using your University username and password if you are prompted to. Reminder: You must have set up another MFA method before you can add a security key.
  3. Click 'Add sign in method' and choose 'Security key'. Your screen may prompt you to sign in using another authentication method before you can continue setting up the security key.
    Screen showing 'Add a method' with 'Security key' selected
  4. Click 'choose USB device'.
    Screen showing 'Choose security key'
  5. Plug your security key into a USB-C port on your computer and click 'next'.
    Screen showing 'Have your key ready'

  6. Depending on your device set up, you may see different options:

     7. Click 'ok' to the next two prompts.
     8. You will be prompted to create a PIN for the security key. Make sure you remember the PIN or use a password manager to keep it safe.
     9. To complete setup, you will be asked to touch the sensor on your YubiKey security key.
     10. On your computer screen you should now see a box that confirms your security key is set up: 'you’re all set!'
     11. Test your security key by opening a new browser window and logging in to Microsoft Office. You need to have your security key connected to a USB port on your computer. When prompted, please enter your PIN and tap the sensor on the security key.

Note: if your computer or device has an NFC reader, you can tap the security key against it to use it.  

Help and support

If you need support setting up your security key, please contact IT Services by phoning 0117 428 2100 (available 24 hours), visiting the IT Counter, or raising a ticket using the IT self-service site (requires log-in).

Our Using MFA page has information and guidance about using MFA.