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How To: Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Without a Smartphone

This guide walks you through selecting a password manager, configuring MFA, and logging into Armanino Access without a smartphone.

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Written by Amy Wardle

If you do not have access to a smartphone, you can still set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for your Armanino Access account by using a password manager that supports one-time passcodes (TOTP). These password managers generate the six-digit verification codes required to complete MFA enrollment and sign in to Armanino Access.

Before You Begin

To complete this process, you will need:

  • A password manager that supports TOTP or MFA code generation

  • Access to your Armanino Access welcome or MFA reset email

  • A web browser on your computer

Important: The MFA setup process is time-sensitive. Once you begin, complete the process without switching to other tasks.

Step 1: Choose a Password Manager

You will need a password manager capable of generating six-digit MFA verification codes directly from your computer.

Search for a Password Manager

Using your preferred web browser or application store, search for:

  • Reputable password manager with built-in TOTP authenticator

  • Desktop password manager with MFA generation

Before downloading a password manager, verify that it includes:

  1. Built-in TOTP or MFA generation

  2. Zero-knowledge architecture

  3. Independent third-party security audits such as SOC 2 compliance

Step 2: Create a Password Manager Entry

  1. Open your password manager.

  2. Create a new item, login, or password entry.

  3. Enter your Armanino Access username.

  4. Generate or create a secure password.

  5. Save the entry.

Important: Do not close or delete the item after saving it. You will need it later to complete MFA setup.

Step 3: Sign In to Armanino Access

If your MFA has been reset, you must complete the entire sign-in process, including creating a new password and establishing a new MFA connection.

  1. Open the Armanino Access welcome or reset email.

  2. Copy the temporary password included in the email.

  3. Select Login Now.

  • Enter your username and temporary password.

  • When prompted, create a new password.

If your password manager includes a browser extension, it may automatically fill the password for you.

  • Confirm the password and continue.

Step 4: Set Up MFA in Your Password Manager

After creating your new password, Armanino Access will prompt you to configure MFA.

  1. On the MFA setup screen, locate the setup key displayed beneath the QR code.

  2. Copy the setup key.

  3. Paste the setup key into your password manager's One-Time Password field.

Once saved, the password manager will begin generating six-digit authentication codes.

Step 5: Complete MFA Verification

  1. Return to the Armanino Access MFA screen.

  2. Enter the six-digit code generated by your password manager.

    1. Before selecting Confirm Code:

      • Verify that the code has not expired.

      • Enter only the six digits.

      • Do not include spaces.

  3. Select Confirm Code.

Once the code is accepted, you will be logged in to Armanino Access.

What Happens Next?

Moving forward, you will use the six-digit code generated by your password manager each time Armanino Access requires MFA verification. If your password manager includes a browser extension, it may automatically fill your username, password, and MFA code during sign-in, making future logins faster and easier.

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