Easier sign-ins. Stronger protection.
Passwords are one of the easiest ways for hackers to get into your accounts. Passkeys offer better protection. The University of Arkansas System, which includes UA Little Rock, is adopting passkeys to make your account more secure. Instead of typing a password to access university services, you can use your phone, computer, or a security key such as a YubiKey to prove it’s you.
How Does This Affect Me?
All UA Little Rock employees must set up a passkey by October 31, 2026 to maintain access to university services.
This requirement applies to faculty, staff, graduate assistants, extra help, and student workers.
Why UA Little Rock is Making This Change
Passkeys provide stronger protection against account theft and phishing than traditional passwords, text messages, and phone-call verification. Microsoft also recommends passkeys as a phishing-resistant method for protecting accounts.
UA Little Rock is implementing this requirement to provide stronger protection for employee accounts and university information. Employees can set up a passkey using:
- Microsoft Authenticator on a compatible smartphone
- A YubiKey physical security key
Before You Begin Passkey Setup
Allow about 10 minutes to complete setup.
If using a smartphone, you will need:
- Your UA Little Rock account
- Microsoft Authenticator installed on your smartphone
- iPhone: iOS 17 or later
- Android: Android 14 or later
- Bluetooth available when required during setup or sign-in
If you are unable to use a compatible smartphone, a YubiKey is an alternative.
Get Started
Choose the option that works best for you.
Set Up With Microsoft Authenticator
Use Microsoft Authenticator on a compatible iPhone or Android smartphone.
Set Up a Passkey Using Microsoft Authenticator
Set Up With a YubiKey
A YubiKey is a physical security key that can be used instead of a smartphone. (Note: Departments are responsible for purchasing YubiKeys).
Set Up a Passkey Using a YubiKey
If you need a hardware security key, contact your department which is responsible for purchasing YubiKeys for employees who need them.
If you are unsure who to contact, start with your supervisor or departmental technology support contact.
Learn More About the Passkey Process
Do I have to use my personal smartphone?
No. Employees who cannot or do not want to use a compatible smartphone may use a YubiKey physical security key.
Does UA Little Rock receive my fingerprint or facial recognition information?
No. If your device uses a fingerprint, facial recognition, PIN, or another device-unlock method, that information remains on your device. UA Little Rock does not receive your biometric information.
Do I need a separate passkey for every computer I use?
No. Your passkey is associated with the sign-in method you set up, such as Microsoft Authenticator or a YubiKey.
What if I need help deciding which option to use?
Contact your departmental technology support person or supervisor for assistance.
If additional assistance is needed, contact the IT Services Assistance Center.
What if I am a new employee?
New employees will receive information about passkey setup as part of the onboarding process.
If you are unsure which option to use or need a YubiKey, contact your supervisor or departmental technology support contact.
Need Help?
If your department has dedicated technology support, contact your departmental technology support person first. They are familiar with the technology used in your area and may be able to provide the fastest assistance.
Departmental Technology Contacts
CBHHS: Nathan Duncan
CHASSE: Timothy Kessler
CSTEM: Mark Pace
Bowen School of Law: Steve Hyatt
MidSOUTH: Daniel Layne
IT Services Contact
You may also contact the IT Services Assistance Center for help with passkey setup or account access.
IT Services Assistance Center
Trojan A (TRA) 105
501-916-3011
[email protected]