Bypass Codes and SMS

How do I use a bypass code? How do I use SMS?

The Duo Mobile app is the preferred second factor to use with Duo. It is the easiest method and will provide the best user experience.

However, there are situations in which you may choose to use a bypass code, or a code received via SMS.

Temporary - I cannot use the Duo Mobile app now, but I will in the future! 

If you cannot use the Duo Mobile app on your smart phone or tablet now - because your phone is broken, the battery is dead, the phone is not with you, the app was uninstalled, etc. the ability to generate a bypass code is available.

  • From any browser, use this link
  • In the UMID field, enter your UMID.
  • On the next screen, enter your password.
  • Click Submit
  • The UMB Account Management page will appear. In the Setup your: menu to the left, select Multi Factor Authentication (Duo).
  • The Duo Self Service page will appear:
  • Click Generate Bypass Code.
  • You will be asked to identify yourself by entering your date of birth and either the last 4 digits of your SSN or a UMB PIN.
  • Click Submit.
  • The Duo bypass code will appear. It will be valid for 10 minutes. Either write the code down or highlight the code by selecting Ctrl + C to copy it.

To use the code:

  • When signing into an application requiring MFA, on the Choose an authentication method screen, click Enter a Passcode.
    • You can instead select My Settings and Devices to either add a landline or another smartphone if desired.
  • Enter the provided passcode and then click Log In.

NOTE:  Generating a bypass code is meant to be typically a temporary solution. If you need a permanent solution because you do not have a smartphone or it is not available, please contact the Help Desk at 6-4357 for additional assistance and information on other alternatives.

Permanent - I cannot use the Duo Mobile app now, and will not in the future!  

If you cannot use the Duo Mobile app on your smart phone or tablet now or in the future - because you do not have a smart phone or cannot install the Duo Mobile app for some other reason, etc. - please call the Help Desk, at 706-4357.

We can issue you a temporary passcode so you can access your account and add another device, like a landline, or temporary mobile phone.

We can help you to setup one or more landlines so Duo can call your desk phone, home phone, mobile phone, etc.

We can also help you to determine whether a hardware token or "key fob" is a possible solution for you.

How do I generate a bypass code using Duo Mobile? 

You can use the Duo Mobile app to generate a bypass code on your smartphone or tablet.

Simply launch the Duo Mobile app, then click on the key icon next to University of Maryland, Baltimore.

Duo Mobile Passcode

Then enter the displayed code when prompted for Second Password, or Enter Passcode.

How do I use SMS? 

You can receive a bypass code via SMS, or text messaging.

If you are logging in through Duo in a web browser, click on "Enter a Passcode."

Duo Passcode 1

Then click on "Text me new codes" at the bottom of the screen.

Duo Passcode 2

You will then receive a bypass code via SMS at the selected device.


If you are using the VPN client, enter "SMS" in the "Second Password" or "Enter DUO Key ..." field:

A screenshot of the login screen for VPN Duo.

‌‌ or

VPN Duo log in image

If you have more than one device capable of receiving SMS or text messages enrolled with Duo:

  • Enter SMS1 to send to the first device.
  • Enter SMS2 to send to the second device.
  • Enter SMS3 to send to the third device.

You can determine which phone is SMS1, SMS2 or SMS3 by logging in at https://directory.umaryland.edu, clicking on Multi-Factor Authentication, then clicking on My Settings and Devices.

 SMS1 Duo VPN bypass code

 Or you can call the Help Desk at 706-4357 for assistance.

*Depending on your service provider and contract, SMS fees may apply.

Can I use a hardware token or key fob? 

If Duo Mobile on your smartphone is not an option for you, you can be issued a hardware token, or "key fob."

When prompted for your Second Password, or Enter Passcode, simply press the button on the fob, then enter the passcode displayed.

Please coordinate with your local school or department IT team for approval:

  • Central Administration - IT Help Desk
  • HS/HSL — M.J. Tooey
  • School of Dentistry — Kent Buckingham
  • School of Law — Mike Green
  • School of Medicine — Scott Stefan
  • FPI — Tia Stokes
  • School of Nursing — IT Help Desk
  • School of Pharmacy — Tim Munn
  • School of Social Work — David Pitts