Faculty & Staff

New Multifactor Authentication Requirement

The security protection measures for accessing Pace’s Virtual Private Network (VPN) are being increased. The University has partnered with Duo Security to implement Multifactor Authentication (MFA) for access to Pace University’s VPN.

MFA, also known as 2-Factor Authentication, adds a second verification step (or second factor) by utilizing a mobile device in your possession, such as a cell phone or tablet, to complete authentication to a website or system. You will continue using your computer or laptop to connect to the Pace VPN, but you will now be asked to enter a second verification code, which you obtain from the Duo app on your alternative device.

When you go to connect from off-campus through your Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client, or via the vpn.pace.edu site, you will see two options in the group field dropdown.

Option 1: PaceWeb (current default option only available until September 30, 2018)

Option 2: PaceWeb_2Factor (new option, which will require 2-factor authentication)

Pace University faculty and staff should take the time to enroll in Duo MFA now before the final deadline of September 30, 2018. If you have not enrolled by the deadline, you will lose access to the Pace VPN until you enroll in Duo MFA. In addition, the Help Desk is expected to have a higher volume of support requests during that time so wait times may be longer. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you take action ahead of time in order to avoid any disruption to your VPN access.

Why is This Occurring?

Implementing Duo MFA will allow us to better protect your VPN account from potential unauthorized intrusions by adding a second step for verification, which uses a physical device in your possession. This additional step will reduce system access vulnerabilities and help to strengthen our overall security.

Read on for more information or email the Help Desk.