When you upgrade your phone, Duo Restore makes it easy to transfer your Duo Mobile account without calling the ITS Help Desk. But it only works if certain settings are enabled on your current device. By enabling the right settings now, your Duo Mobile app will “just work” on your new device.

What Is Duo Restore?

Duo Restore is a feature in the Duo Mobile app that backs up your Duo-protected accounts so you can restore them when you get a new phone. This helps you avoid lockouts and saves time during device changes. If these settings aren't enabled, you'll need to call the ITS Help Desk to re-enroll. 

Before You Switch Phones

To make Duo Restore work, you need to enable certain settings on your current device. If you transfer data directly from your old phone to your new one (device-to-device migration), Duo usually works without these steps. However, if you set up your new phone from scratch or restore from a backup, these settings matter.

For iOS (iPhone/iPad)

Duo Restore works automatically if: 

  • iCloud Backup is enabled (Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup).
  • iCloud Keychain is enabled (Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Keychain).
    • This is often off by default and is required for Duo Restore to work.
  • You have enough iCloud storage for app data. (The free 5GB plan usually covers app settings, including Duo, but if storage is full, backups may fail.)
  • Note: Duo Restore does not appear as an option in Duo Mobile menus on iOS—it’s handled entirely through iCloud.

For Android

  • Open the Duo Mobile app.
  • Go to Settings > Duo Restore and enable backups.
  • Link Duo Mobile to your Google account for backup.
  • For additional help, visit the Duo Restore guide, which includes screenshots and further instructions.

When You Get Your New Phone

  • Install Duo Mobile.
  • Sign in with the same Apple ID (iOS) or Google account (Android).
  • Duo Mobile will restore your accounts automatically if the settings above were enabled.

Why This Matters

Setting up Duo Restore now means:

  • No need to contact the ITS Help Desk when you upgrade your phone.
  • Faster access to your accounts.
  • Less downtime for your work.

More Help?

For more information, visit Duo's guide to Duo Restore. 

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