First Time User Set Up

Overview

This article provides step-by-step instructions for setting up your Northwood Tech account for the first time. This process includes activating your account, setting your password, and completing any required multi-factor authentication (MFA) setup.

Your Northwood Tech account gives you access to essential systems, including Email, MyCampus, Microsoft 365, and other campus resources. Completing the setup ensures you can securely access these services.

Prerequisites

Before beginning account setup, please make sure you have:

• Active student or employee status
• Access to the personal email account used during registration or hiring
• Your Northwood Tech email address
• A PC or Mac with Internet access
• A smartphone or tablet with the Microsoft Authenticator app installed for the multi-factor authentication (MFA) setup
• Your student or employee information is available for identity verification, if prompted
   

Instructions

Login

1. On your computer:
   Go to https://myapplications.microsoft.com/.
2. Enter your Northwood Tech Email address.
   1. Example Student Email: jstudent1234@northwoodtech.edu
   2. Example Employee Email: joe.employee@northwoodtech.edu
3. Enter your default password.
   1. NOTE: The default password is the first two letters of your first name + the first two letters of your last name + the last four digits of your college ID.
   Re-enter your default password.
   Enter your new password.
   Re-enter your new password.
   • NOTE: New password must be 13 characters or more
4. Click Sign in
5. Click Next.

Set up Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)

1. On your mobile device:
   If you haven't already, install the Microsoft Authenticator app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
2. On your computer:
   Click Next to begin the Microsoft Authenticator setup.
3. On your mobile device:
   Open the Microsoft Authenticator app and scan the QR code displayed on your computer.
4. On your computer:
   Click Next.
5. A two-digit number will appear on your computer.
6. On your mobile device:
   Enter the two-digit number into the Microsoft Authenticator app when prompted, then tap Yes to approve the sign-in request.
7. On your computer:
   Click Done to complete the setup.

Troubleshooting

I don't know my Northwood Tech email address

• Check the welcome or onboarding email sent to your personal email account.
• Students can also refer to their admissions or enrollment communications.
• Employees can check with their supervisor or hiring manager.
• If you still cannot locate your Northwood Tech email address, contact the Service Desk.

My default password isn't working

• Verify you are entering your Northwood Tech email address correctly.
• Ensure your default password is entered using:
  • The first two letters of your first name.
  • The first two letters of your last name.
  • The last four digits of your college ID.
• Passwords are case-sensitive.
• If you continue to receive an incorrect password message, contact the Service Desk to verify your account or request a password reset.

I didn't receive a QR code

• Make sure you've selected Next after changing your password.
• Refresh the page or sign out and start the setup process again.
• If the QR code still does not appear, try another supported web browser or open an InPrivate/Incognito window.
• If the problem continues, contact the Service Desk.

Microsoft Authenticator won't scan the QR code

• Confirm the Microsoft Authenticator app is installed (not another authenticator app).
• Allow the Microsoft Authenticator app to access your device's camera.
• Increase the brightness of your computer screen if the QR code is difficult to scan.
• Hold your phone steady and ensure the entire QR code is visible.
• If scanning continues to fail, restart the app and try again.

The two-digit number doesn't appear

• Verify you've selected Next on your computer after scanning the QR code.
• Wait a few seconds for the prompt to appear.
• If the prompt never appears, cancel the setup and begin the MFA registration again.
• If the issue persists, contact the Service Desk.

I approved the notification, but setup didn't finish

• Wait a few moments, as the setup may still be processing.
• Verify you entered the correct two-digit number before approving the request.
• Refresh the browser and sign in again if necessary.
• If the setup still does not complete, restart the registration process or contact the Service Desk.

I received a "Password doesn't meet requirements" message

• Passwords must be at least 13 characters long.
• Include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters if required by your organization's password policy.
• Avoid using your name, username, or common words.
• Create a new password and try again.

I replaced or lost my phone after setting up MFA

• If you no longer have access to your previous mobile device, you'll need to have your MFA methods reset before registering your new device.
• Contact the Service Desk for assistance with resetting your Microsoft Authenticator registration.

I accidentally closed the setup window

• Return to https://myapplications.microsoft.com and sign in using your Northwood Tech email address and newly created password.
• If MFA registration was not completed, you'll be prompted to continue the setup process.
• If you're unable to continue, contact the Service Desk for assistance.