A hard token is an electronic device that generates one-time passwords for logging into a computer system. This provides an extra layer of security called multi-factor authentication.
If you do not have a smart phone, you can use a Duo token (a small piece of hardware that generates the authentication code.)
Hard tokens have acquired many different names here on campus, however they are all referring the same device. Some names for tokens include DES token, authentication token, 2-step authentication token, two-factor authentication token, multi-factor authentication token, PIN generator, Duo token, or just 'token'.
When these are kept on a keychain or in a manner that it gets dinged in a pocket or other space, the token may need to be resynced with assistance from IT Express.
What kind of tokens can I use?
Duo Token (Duo Digipass GO 6 token)
Purchasing a Hard Token
Students:
Available at UC Davis Stores (530) 752-6846 for personal and departmental purchases. Do not purchase a Duo token from any other source.
Yes. If a department has a spare Duo hard token, IT Express can assist them by phone to assign it to a different customer. For security reasons, they cannot assist DUO requests by chat or email with this process.
How do I enroll a hard token?
Once you have obtained a hard token, IT Express Service Desk can assist you by phone at (530) 754-4357 to register the device with your account. For security reasons, they cannot assist DUO requests by chat or email with this process. Once registered, you will be able to start using the hard token to login to Duo.
How do I use a hard token?
When you are prompted for a two-factor authentication code, you press the button on the front of the hard token. The token will display a 6 character passcode, which you enter when prompted.