How to...
Okta - How to set up FreeOTP
For GlobalProtect VPN users only
Only follow these instructions if you are already using the FreeOTP app and you don't want to download another authenticator app.
If not, we recommend using Okta Verify as your multi-factor authentication app.
To use the FreeOTP app as your chosen multi-factor authentication app please complete the following steps;
Stages that need to be completed on your smartphone are labelled [Phone] and pages that need to be completed on your computer are labelled [Computer].
1. [Computer] Visit https://okta.sussex.ac.uk/ and sign into your Okta account.
a. Log in using your IT username and password (e.g. ano123@sussex.ac.uk)
b. You may be prompted to fill in a security question if this if your first time visiting or signing into Okta.
2. [Computer] Click the arrow in the top-right corner and click on Settings in the drop-down menu.
3. [Computer] Under the 'Security Methods' section, click 'Set up' next to the Google Authenticator option.
a. You may be prompted to re-enter your password.
4. [Computer] Click the ‘Set Up’ button again on the following page.
5. [Phone] With the QR code open on your computer screen, open your FreeOTP app on your smartphone.
6. [Phone] Tap the plus (+) icon in the bottom right corner and then select the QR code logo.
a. If requested, give the app permission to use your camera. (This permission can be removed after set up is complete from your phone settings)
7. [Phone] Position your phone in front of your computer screen so the camera captures the QR code displayed.
8. [Phone] A 'Token is unsafe!' alert may appear in the app which is expected, tap 'Add Anyway'.
9. [Computer] Click 'Next' on the Okta screen.
10. [Phone] Tap the 'okta.sussex.ac.uk' box on the FreeOTP app to show a six digit code.
11. Enter the code on your phone into the Okta screen before the timer wheel runs out and click 'Verify'.
a. If the wheel is close to ending, wait until a new code is generated.
How to use
1. Next time you log into an app that requires MFA, you may be required to open the FreeOTP app on your phone and manually enter the code into the log-in page on your computer.
2. You will now have two tiles in the FreeOTP app. Make sure you use the 'okta.sussex.ac.uk' tile when generating a code and the other tile when connecting to the VPN.
Support
Visit the MFA info page.
Visit the Okta info page.
Please read our full list of FAQs.
If you can't find the answer you're looking for please visit the ITS Help page.
Password change or reset instructions.
created on 2024-07-10 by Benoit Sharp
last updated on 2024-12-04 by Benoit Sharp