SecureAuth: Configure Multi-Factor Authentication

SecureAuth is a Two Factor Authentication (TFA) application that enables you to securely connect to the NYSERDA environment with two factors:

  • something you know (your password)
  • something you have (the application)  

This allows one to securely access Office 365 from anywhere in the world, and is also used to securely log into a virtual machine when outside of the NYSERDA network.

Most people who have VMs and/or work from home have and use this application already.  It is used to get your passcode when you're connecting to the VMWare horizon application from outside of the NYSERDA offices or on WiFi. It is also used for secure access to Office365. The process for getting your passcode is exactly the same as for connecting to your VM.  

Download the SecureAuth application on either your computer or mobile phone. Please note that the directions beginning on step 2 are for iOS (iPhone). Android and PC/Mac are similar. The PC/Mac client will prompt the user to create a pin to unlock the application. This can be any 4-digit number and does not have to be related to any other NYSERDA password, code or PIN.

  • Android or iOS app: search the respective app store for SecureAuth and select the SecureAuth Authentication option.


Launch the application. It will ask to be allowed to send notifications. Either deny or approve based on your preference.

Then, select the Plus icon in the upper-left corner of the window to add a new account. It will ask whether you should connect with a URL or with a QR code. Select the URL option.

On the next screen, enter the Server URL secure.nyserda.ny.gov then click Continue to Login.

On the next screen, enter in your NYSERDA username (the same username you use to log into your NYSERDA computer). Then click Submit.

If you are unsure what your NYSERDA username is, please reach out to the Service Desk at (518) 862-1090 x4357 or at servicedesk@nyserda.ny.gov.

On the next screen, the Email xxxxx@nyserda.ny.gov option should already be selected. If it is not selected, select it. Click Submit. This will email a one-time code to your NYSERDA email address.

If you are unaware of, or do not have access to, your NYSERDA email address, select the Contact helpdesk at (518) 862-1090 x4357 option and click Submit. This will send the one-time code to the Service Desk team. Call the service desk at (518) 862-1090 x4357 once you click submit to have them read the code to you.

On the next screen, enter the one-time 4 digit code you received either through your email or from the Service Desk. Then click Submit.

On the next screen, enter your NYSERDA network user ID and password, then click Submit.

If you are unsure what your user ID and password are, please contact the NYSERDA Service Desk at (518) 862-1090 x4357 or at helpdesk@nyserda.ny.gov.

On the final screen you should see a message stating that the enrollment process was successful. Click OK.