#  Introducing Okta: The new way to verify your identity with HarvardKey 

 





April 17, 2025

 

 

Over the next year, the University will replace Duo with a new authentication service called Okta for HarvardKey identity verification. Okta offers enhanced authentication methods that improve security while making sign-in faster and easier.   
   
You can learn more about Okta below or find more information on [our website](https://www.huit.harvard.edu/okta).

If you have any questions or need help, you can contact the [HUIT Service Desk](https://www.huit.harvard.edu/get-help) or your [local IT support](https://harvard.service-now.com/harvard-it-services).

## **What is Okta?**

Okta is Harvard’s new multi-factor authentication (MFA) service to verify your identity when you sign in to HarvardKey, replacing Duo. By spring 2026, all HarvardKey users will be required to use Okta.

### **When and how will I switch to Okta?**

In February, you linked your Duo account to Okta. The next step is to set up Okta on the devices that you use to sign in to HarvardKey.

- You will be contacted by HUIT or your School’s local IT support with a specific deadline to set up Okta, and instructions on how to do so.
- If you want to set up Okta sooner, you can do so at your convenience by following [these step-by-step instructions](https://harvard.service-now.com/ithelp?id=kb_article&sys_id=93e0b60493102a10bf14bbcd1dba10c4).

### **What are the benefits of switching to Okta?**

Okta’s **FastPass** feature enables you to verify your identity using your device’s built-in security mechanisms—including **fingerprint or facial recognition** or **device-specific PINs**—instead of entering your HarvardKey password. Sometimes known as “passwordless” authentication, this makes signing in faster and more secure. [Learn more](https://www.huit.harvard.edu/okta).   
   
Okta also supports alternative authentication methods, including push notifications and hardware tokens (e.g. YubiKeys).

### **Where can I learn more?**

You can find more detailed information and FAQs about this change, including an explanation of how FastPass (“passwordless”) authentication works, on [our website](https://www.huit.harvard.edu/okta).