YubiKey FAQ

Overview

Audience: Students, Faculty, Staff

This FAQ is designed to help faculty, staff, and students at the University of Arkansas understand and use YubiKeys for secure access to university systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is a YubiKey?

Answer: A YubiKey is a small hard token 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 and tap the key during sign‑in. This makes it much harder for someone else to access your account, even if they know your password.

Question: How do I set up my YubiKey?

Answer: For Windows, you can follow the instructions on the Yubikey Security Key for MFA Knowledge Base Article for setting your key up. For Mac, you can follow the instructions on the YubiKey: Mac setup instructions for multifactor authentication article. 

Question: Is YubiKey the only acceptable backup method for Microsoft Passkey?

Answer: Yes. If you cannot or do not want to use passkey, then YubiKey is the only acceptable option for multifactor authentication at the university.

Question: If I need a YubiKey, where do I get one?

Answer: Faculty, staff and student workers who need to use YubiKey instead of Microsoft passkey will request a YubiKey using the YubiKey Request form. After the form is completed, you will be notified when you can pick up your YubiKey from the IT Help Desk in the Union. Please note that IT Services is only providing the 1st YubiKey through rollout of the passkey project. 

Question: Which model of YubiKey will I need?

Answer:

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.

Question: Should I leave my YubiKey plugged in to my computer or device?

Answer: No. After authenticating with your YubiKey, remove it from your computer or device and return it to its safe place. This will also help with accidentally leaving your YubiKey behind when using shared computers on campus. 

Question: If I lose my YubiKey, how do I replace it?

Answer: If you lose your YubiKey, you will have to call the Help Desk so they can give you temporary access to your account while you replace your key. For faculty and staff, you will need to contact your department to inquire about their pricing and replacement protocol. 

Question: Can I store files on my YubiKey?

Answer: No. YubiKeys are used exclusively to authenticate. They don't have any accessible storage.

Question: What should I do if my computer doesn't recognize my YubiKey?

Answer: 

• Try a different USB Port.
• Ensure the key is fully inserted.
• Restart your computer.
• Contact your Tech Partner or the IT Help Desk in the Arkansas Union if problems continue. 

Question: Why isn't my YubiKey working with a Lightning-to-USB-C adapter on my iPhone or iPad?

Answer:  Standard Lightning-to-USB-C adapters only support charging or audio, so they won’t work with a YubiKey. You need a Lightning (male) to USB-C (female) OTG adapter that supports data transfer. These adapters are not provided by the university.

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. 

• Submit a UARK IT Help ticket 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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