Blackboard login has changed
23 Jul 2018
If you have a teaching or administrative role within Blackboard you now need to use 2-factor authentication as part of the login process.
The change, which was part of the annual Blackboard upgrade, affects mostly staff, but some postgraduates and a small number of undergraduates too. Anyone affected has been sent emails from IT Services.
How does it work?
If you have a teaching or administrative role in Blackboard, when you log in you will be asked to verify your identity using the University’s 2-factor authentication service from Duo.
You log in to Blackboard with your University username and password (as you’ve always done), and then a screen from Duo appears asking how you would like to authenticate. The easiest way to authenticate is by using the Duo Mobile app on a smartphone to receive a simple push notification (allowing you to respond with a simple tap), or generate a passcode.
You need to follow the new login process every time you start a new session in Blackboard – i.e., if you close your internet browser and start again.
Please note that you do not need to use the GlobalProtect VPN to login to Blackboard, but you do need to remember your 2-factor device.
Why have we done it?
2-factor authentication provides an additional layer of security should your username and password get in to the wrong hands – it is part of a programme of work to better protect University systems and services.
Managing your 2-factor devices
The University IT Account Manager offers self-service options to manage your authentication method and devices – including signing up to Duo for the first time
You can read more about the 2-factor device options available:
And there’s more information about 2-factor authentication, including Frequently Asked Questions:
Help and support
Having problems signing up to Duo or registering a device? Contact our IT Support Centre either online through the IT Services website, face-to-face at the Kilburn Building walk-up support desk, or via phone on 0161 306 5544.