UW Technology operates a high-assurance authentication service based on SecurID technology from RSA Security Inc. The SecurID authentication system is a "two-factor" system: it uses both "something you know" – a password or PIN – and "something you have" – a secure device that generates a new secret value every minute. A two-factor system provides better security than a single-factor system (such as regular UW NetID + password authentication) because the attacker must obtain both the user's password and their device to impersonate them.

SecurID is used for applications that require a higher level of authentication security. Primarily these are central university administrative functions. Web-based applications can be set up to use SecurID by using Pubcookie configured with the appropriate authentication type.

Contact help@u.washington.edu if you have questions about use of SecurID authentication at UW.