Overview
Audience: Students, Faculty, Staff
A YubiKey is a small physical security key used to help protect your UARK account and university systems. It provides an extra layer of protection by confirming your identity during sign‑in using a physical device you have with you. YubiKeys are used as a multi‑factor authentication (MFA) method. Unlike authentication methods that rely on phone notifications or codes, a YubiKey requires you to physically insert or tap the key during sign‑in. This makes it much harder for someone else to access your account, even if they know your password.
When is a YubiKey Required?
YubiKeys are required only when a passkey cannot be used. As the university transitions to passkeys as the primary authentication method, YubiKeys are the approved alternative MFA option. For more information on passkeys, please see the About Passkey knowledge base article.
How do I know if I need a YubiKey?
YubiKeys are required for:
- Faculty, staff, or students who are unable or have a reason not to use passkeys.
- Individuals who do not have access to a compatible smart phone.
- If you have a computer that does not have Bluetooth and cannot use a dongle.
Where do I get a YubiKey if I need one?
Faculty and staff who need to use YubiKey instead of Microsoft passkey will request a YubiKey using the
YubiKey Request form.
The request form is for faculty and staff only. After the form is completed, you will be notified when you can pick up your YubiKey from the IT Help Desk in the Union. There are 2 different models of YubiKeys. The
C NFC model will be available to users for access to general university portals and systems, email, VPN, payroll and financial systems, research databases, and other data. The
5C NFC model is available to server administrators who are unable to use Duo.
Please note: IT Services is providing only the 1st YubiKey for faculty, staff, and student employees
through rollout of the passkey project.
Setting Up YubiKey
Instructions for Windows devices: Windows setup instructions for multifactor authentication
Instructions for Mac devices: Mac setup instructions for multifactor authentication
Need Help?
Need more information? Check the Related Articles or Related Services sections on this page (side or at the bottom) for additional resources that might help.
- Contact your department's Tech Partner for access issues.
- Submit an IT training request for personalized support from the IT Training and Outreach.
- (For Help Desk Use) Responsible Group: IT Training and Outreach
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