To get an activation code for Duo Mobile, you must obtain it from your organization's setup process, the app itself does not generate codes. The activation code, typically a QR code or an activation link, is provided when you enroll a new device through your organization's device management portal or when you reactivate Duo Mobile on a new phone.
What is Duo Mobile and why you need an activation code
Duo Mobile is a two-factor authentication app that adds a second layer of security to your accounts. The activation code is a one-time passcode necessary to link your mobile device with the Duo Mobile app to your account or organization's security system. The activation code (a QR code or special link) is what links your phone to your organization's security system, allowing Duo Mobile to generate push notifications or passcodes for verifying your identity during login.
Download Duo Mobile on your device
Before you can scan an activation code, install the Duo Mobile app. For iOS devices running iOS 17 or later, open the App Store, search for "Duo Mobile," and tap Download. For Android devices running Android 12 or later, open the Google Play Store, search for "Duo Mobile," and tap Install. Once installed, you are ready to set up Duo Mobile on a new phone by scanning the code from your organization's portal.
Get your activation code from your organization's portal
The standard way to get an activation code is through your organization's Duo device management portal. Follow these steps:
- Log in with your username and password, then complete any initial authentication steps your organization requires.
- On the device management page, you will see a QR code displayed.
- If you cannot scan the QR code, look for an option that says "Get an activation link instead." Selecting this will send an activation link to your email address or via SMS, which you can open on your phone to complete setup.
This process is how you set up a Duo Mobile account for the first time on any device.
Reactivate Duo Mobile on a new phone
If you get a new phone, reinstall Duo Mobile, or clear the app's cache, you must reactivate Duo Mobile. The activation code is required whenever you need to reinstall or transfer Duo Mobile to a new device. Reactivation is required even if you keep the same phone number. To do this:
- Access your organization's Duo device management portal (the same URL you used for initial setup).
- Authenticate using any method you still have access to (such as a hardware token or a backup code).
- Find your enrolled device in the list and select "Reactivate Duo Mobile" or "I have a new phone" next to it.
- A new QR code will appear on the screen. Open Duo Mobile on your new phone, tap the plus icon, and scan this QR code.
- If scanning is not possible, choose "Get an activation link instead" to receive the code via email or SMS.
What to do if you can't access the activation code
If you are locked out and cannot log into the device management portal because you have no enrolled devices (for example, your only phone was lost or wiped), you must contact your organization's IT Help Desk or Duo administrator. To generate a new activation code from within the app if you lose it: Open Duo Mobile, tap the three dots (menu) icon, select 'Account Management' or 'Settings', scroll down and select 'Generate Activation Code'. These administrators can generate activation codes or links directly from the Duo Admin Panel. They can then send the activation link to you via email or SMS, or provide the QR code in person, so you can set up Duo Mobile on a new device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is each activation code unique to a specific device?
Yes, each device requires its own unique activation code. The code is tied to your account and the specific phone's identifier, so you cannot reuse the same QR code or link on multiple phones.
How long is an activation code valid for?
Activation codes typically expire after a set period, often 24 hours. If you do not scan the QR code or use the link within that timeframe, you will need to generate a new code from your organization's portal or contact your administrator for a fresh one.
What happens if I lose the activation code before using it?
If you lose the QR code or activation link before completing setup, simply return to your organization's device management portal and repeat the process to generate a new code. If you cannot access the portal, your Duo administrator can provide a replacement.
