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Accessing SCINet without a LincPass/AltLinc

SCINet users that do not have a LincPass/AltLinc may use an alternative authentication option for accessing SCINet.

Non-USDA users - Login.gov

Sponsored, non-USDA SCINet users will use Login.gov to log on to SCINet systems.

  • When logging in to SCINet systems, you will be presented with the USDA eAuthentication login page.

  • If prompted, select “Customer”

  • Select “Login.gov”

  • This will redirect you to Login.gov for you to sign in. If you already have an existing Login.gov account, there is no need for you to create a new one. You can simply sign in with your existing Login.gov account, though ensure that the same email address used for your SCINet account is included in the Login.gov account.

  • If you need to create an account, toggle from “Sign In” to “Create an account”:

    • Once you fill out the required information, you will be sent an email to confirm your account. Confirming your email will redirect you back to Login.gov for you to set up a password and second authentication method.
    • More information on account set up can be found here.
    • Once you have completed the account setup, you will need to select “Continue without linking to an existing eAuth account” to move forward.
  • Once you have successfully authenticated with Login.gov, you should be redirected to the web-based interface you are attempting to access (e.g., Open OnDemand) or, if you are authenticating via SSH, you should see a similar image to the successful logins for LincPass:

If you need assistance with this login process, please email your questions to scinet_vrsc@usda.gov.

USDA users without a LincPass/AltLinc

In situations where USDA SCINet users do not have a LincPass/AltLinc, they may use Windows Hello for Business (WHfB) or a PIV Exemption as alternatives for SCINet authentication.

  • Windows Hello for Business - SCINet users who have already enrolled in WHfB may select the eAuth “USDA Work Account” option to login to SCINet. If you have not enrolled in WHfB and would like to enroll, choose one of the following options.
    • If you have a LincPass/Altlink, get started with the instructions provided at the Windows Hello: How Do I? SharePoint site to set up your Windows Hello PIN.
    • If you do not have a LincPass/AltLinc card, you will need to contact IT support for help with WHfB enrollment.
  • 24 Hour LincPass Exemption - SCINet users who do not have a LincPass/AltLinc and cannot use WHfB may submit a LincPass Exemption Request. Once the LincPass Exemption Request has been processed, they may login to SCINet by selecting the eAuth PIV Exemption option.

If you need assistance with this login process, please email your questions to scinet_vrsc@usda.gov.