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Setting Up a YubiKey with Okta Verify

A YubiKey can be used in place of a cell phone for your Okta Multifactor Authentication process.

Before you begin

  1. First, purchase a YubiKey. Be sure to choose one that is compatible with the method you prefer for verification:
    • USBA (requires smart phone)
    • USBC (requires smart phone)
    • Lightning and USBC
    • If you are not sure which to choose, you can take the quiz on the Yubico webpage to identify which may be the best fit for you.
  2. You will also need to set up your Okta account first by following the instructions for Setting Up and Using Okta Verify.

Activating Your YubiKey

Windows Devices

  1. Plug your YubiKey into your computer and let Windows install the drivers.
  2. Once the drivers are installed, open your Okta user settings by going to myapps.wisconsin.edu and clicking your name in the top right corner. Click Settings and scroll to the Security Methods area toward the bottom of the page.
  3. Click Set Up Key or Biometric Authenticator.
    Set Up Button
  4. Your browser will ask you for access to the YubiKey. Click OK.
    Browser Access YubiKey Prompt
  5. You will be prompted to set up an additional pin for your YubiKey. The pin needs to be at least 6 digits long.
    Create Pin
  6. Once added, you should see YubiKey listed under your Security Methods.
    YubiKey in Security

Mac Devices

  1. Download and launch YubiKey Manager.
  2. Once the YubiKey Manager is open, plug in your YubiKey and follow the prompts to complete set-up.
    • It is strongly recommended that you set a PIN for your YubiKey, even if you are not specifically prompted to.
  3. Log into myapps.wisconsin.edu, click your name in the top right corner, and choose Settings. Scroll down to Security Methods.
  4. When prompted for a verification method, choose Security Key or Biometric Authenticator and follow the prompts to complete set-up.


Keywords:
Okta, YubiKey, Yubi, Key, MFA 
Doc ID:
151642
Owned by:
Christy S. in Wisconsin Online Collaboratives
Created:
2025-06-11
Updated:
2025-08-14
Sites:
Wisconsin Online Collaboratives