Question

How do I enroll in Okta for the first time using the Activation link?

Answer

1. From your computer, click on the Activation link in the email you were sent.
2. You'll be setting up the security methods that will be used to access your account, and the first step will be to choose a password for your account.  You'll see a screen like the one below. Click the Set up button.
   
   
   
3. You'll need to choose a password of at least 16 characters that meet the requirements listed on the screen.  We recommend you choose a passphrase that you will remember - perhaps the title to a favorite book, song, or movie (but remove the spaces). You'll need to type it twice in the fields displayed and then click Next.
   
   
4. You'll now be prompted to enroll the options you will use for two-step login.  We recommend you enroll at least two. If you have a smartphone and/or tablet, Okta Verify is the first one we recommend.  Click Set up under the option you wish to configure.
   
5. Follow the on-screen instructions for the option you selected.  For additional details see the matching section below.
6. After each option is enrolled you'll be returned to the list of remaining options. Continue until all desired options have been enrolled.

Okta Verify

1. For Okta Verify you will need to install the app for your app store if you've not previously done so.  Then open the app on your device and click the + button to add an account.
2. On your mobile device you'll be prompted to choose an Account Type -- select Organization
   
   
   
3. Your computer will be displaying a bar code and instructions.
   
4. On your mobile device type Yes, ready to Scan
   
5. Position the camera so that the bar code on your computer screen is scanned
6. Your phone may ask if you want to Enable FaceID or other options (respond as desired)

Google Authenticator

1. For Google Authenticator you will need to install the app for your app store if you've not previously done so.
   
2. On your mobile device open the Google Authenticator app.  If this is your first use of Google Authenticator you may see several welcome/instruction screens.
3. On your mobile device tap the + in the Google Authenticator app.
4. On your mobile device choose the option to Scan a QR code
   
   
   
5. Position the camera so that the bar code on your computer screen is scanned
   
   
   
6. After successfully scanning the code, click Next and you'll be asked for a code
   
   
   
7. On your mobile device you'll find the Google Authenticator app is displaying a code.  Type that number on the computer screen and click Verify.

Security Key or Biometric Authenticator

1. For Security Key or Biometric Authenticator, choose Set Up
   
   
2. Your browser may ask you to confirm the security key setup
   
   
   
3. Your operating system may also ask you top confirm the security key setup
   
   
   
4. You'll be prompted to insert the security key (most will need to be inserted to a USB port on your computer)
   
   
   
5. After inserting the key you'll be prompted to touch the metal sensor on the device
   

Phone (this option is less secure and may be disabled at a future date, so it should be your last choice)

1. For the Phone, select the appropriate options on the screen that appears
   
   
   1. Select either SMS for a cell phone, or Voice call for a home or office phone
   2. Select the Country your phone provider is in (most will be the United States)
   3. Enter the number of the phone, including the area code. (Do NOT enter a country code -- that will automatically be configured if needed for the country you selected above)
   4. Click the Receive a code button
2. On your phone open the text message you receive or answer the call.
3. On the computer type the code you received and click Verify.