Tutorial - Yubico Security Key Setup on a Mac

Skip to a section: Overview | Instructions | Reset your Yubikey

Available to

Faculty, Staff, Students

Overview

Set up the Yubico security key on a Mac computer. Tested using macOS 15 (Sequoia) with the Chrome browser. Firefox is also supported.

Safari is supported for authentication, but is not supported for setup.

Step 1. 

If the Yubikey has never been attached to the Mac, you may see a dialog asking you to accept it. 

If you do not see the dialog, you may need to change a setting. Go to System settings > Security > Allow accessories to connect. Your options include: 1) Ask for New Accessories, 2) Ask every time, 3) Automatically when unlocked, 4) Always. 

Step 2. 

Navigate to Chrome's menu > Settings > Privacy & Security > Security > Manage security keys > Create PIN. Note you can also reset your security key through this dialog. 

Step 3. 

From Chrome, sign in to Microsoft 365 security info at mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info. Your MFA (authentication) page opens.

Step 4

Click the Add sign-in method link.

Step 5.

Choose Security key (sign in using a USB, Bluetooth or NFC device). 

Step 6

Choose the type of security key, USB or NFC. Click USB device. 

Step 7

Have your key ready. When you choose Next, you will be prompted to tap your security key on the reader. Then, touch the button or sensor on your security key to finish setting up your device. For more detailed instructions, visit your key manufacturer's website.

Step 8

The next dialog box reads, "Your device will redirect you to a new window to finish setup."

Step 9

"Your device is opening a security window. Follow the instructions to finish setting up your passkey." Enter your Yubikey PIN. Click Next. 

Step 10

"Use your security key with login.microsoft.com; Touch your security key again to complete the request. login.microsoft.com will learn the make and model of your security key; A record of your visit to this site will be kep on your security key.

Step 11

Name your Yubikey. This wll help distinguish it from other keys. Click Next. 

You will see a message that, "You're all set! You can use your security key instead of a username and password the next time you sign in. Be sure to follow your security key manufacturer's guidance to perform any additional setup tasks such as registering your fingerprint."

Reset your Yubikey

Your Yubikey can be reset (wiped) so that all accounts and passkeys are wiped from the device.