Adding an extra layer of security to protect your sensitive information 
What is SmartAuth?
SmartAuth is a multi-factor authentication service provided to University System of New Hampshire (USNH) - Granite State College, Keene State College, Plymouth State University, University of New Hampshire, System Office - staff, faculty, and students. It helps protect your account even if your password is stolen.
SmartAuth provides an additional layer of protection to your digital identity as well as adding protection to USNH data, systems and services.
- The first layer (something you know) is the verification of your username and password.
- When accessing a service protected by SmartAuth, the second layer is a passcode delivered to a phone or mobile device (something you have).
To get started, login to your SmartAuth Profile and register your first phone number for receipt of passcodes: https://smartauth.usnh.edu/secureauth36 .
Why do we need SmartAuth?
Phishing and identity theft crimes have increased in the higher education sector over the last few years and protecting your personal information and the university system’s private data is USNH’s highest priority. SmartAuth protects your data even if your password is compromised.
Where can I use SmartAuth?
SmartAuth is used when accessing any of several web applications that need an additional layer of security. Examples include:
- Web Information System for Employees (WISE)
- USNH Banner HR/FIN
- UNH Banner Student
- UNH WebCat
- All campus VPN's
SmartAuth will continue to be rolled out to other services containing sensitive information.
How do I use SmartAuth?
In order to use the SmartAuth service, you must register at least one phone number to receive passcodes and enable the service for your account. It is strongly recommended that you register more than one phone number so you have a back-up if your phone is lost, stolen, broken or otherwise unavailable.
Instructions for Registering a Phone Number for SmartAuth
When attempting to log in to a service protected by SmartAuth, after entering your username and password, you will be prompted to select from one of your registered phones/devices to receive a passcode. You can receive passcodes in a number of ways:
Voice - SmartAuth will automate a phone call to your registered phone and tell you your passcode.
SMS/Text - SmartAuth will generate a text to your registered device with the passcode.
Authenticate app - Installing the Authenticate app (from SecureAuth) on your IOS or Android device will give you two ways to authenticate: you can enter the passcode in your Authenticate app or you can choose "Send login request" and a request will be pushed to your Authenticate app. Once you approve the request, you will be admitted into the system.
A primary benefit of using the Authenticate app is that it does not require cellular or wifi service to generate a passcode. So if you work in an area where cellular service is unreliable, it is recommended that you register the Authenticate app.
YubiKey (Hardware Token) - is a small hardware device used as an alternative method of multifactor authentication.
Detailed instructions for logging into an application or service protected by SmartAuth .
More Information