Enable SMS Backup Authentication

If you have lost or forgotten your authentication device, you can enable SMS Backup Authentication that is valid for one connection or a defined period of time.

Using an Activation Code, an SMS will be sent to your mobile telephone and can be used as one-time password (OTP).

Note:  
  • Use the Back button on the interface rather than on your browser to return to the previous page.
  • The Enable SMS backup authentication function is available only if your administrator has enabled this option.

  1. Connect to the Web Self Help Desk, enter your logon credentials, then click OK.

    The Web Self Help Desk main page is displayed:

     

  2. Under Other operations, click Enable SMS backup authentication:

     

    Note: The Activation code is a user-selected device PIN.

    During authentication (for example, VPN logon), enter the code/PIN in the password field.

    This triggers the AAA Server to send a randomly generated OTP via SMS to the your cellular telephone.

    On receipt of the SMS, enter the OTP in the password field, thereby completing a two-step authentication process.

  3. Enter a random code to activate the SMS Backup function in the Activation code field and confirm it.
  4. In the SMS backup usage section, select the appropriate option (length of duration might vary from one connection to several days of access) and click Enable.

  5. Attempt to authenticate to your system using the activation code.

    The attempt fails but this instructs the AAA Server to send a one-time password to your telephone by SMS.

    You can now authenticate with this one-time password.

    Important: Your other authentication methods are unavailable until this temporary credential expires or you disable it. It can also be disabled by your Help Desk.