Troubleshooting Duo Push Notification Issues on Android
Quick Overview
- This guide helps resolve issues receiving Duo push notifications on Android devices
- Start with pull-to-refresh inside the Duo Mobile app
- Most issues are related to notification, background data, or power-saving settings
If you are not receiving Duo push notifications on your Android device, follow the steps below in order. Most issues can be resolved without reinstalling the app or contacting the Help Desk.
Step 1: Use Pull-to-Refresh in Duo Mobile
Open the Duo Mobile app and pull down on the screen to manually check for pending login requests.
Pull-to-refresh forces Duo Mobile to check directly with Duo servers and is the most reliable way to confirm whether the app and account are functioning correctly.
If Pull-to-Refresh Works
If you can approve a login after pulling to refresh, but you do not receive push notifications automatically, the issue is usually related to notification delivery or background data restrictions.
Most common causes:
Background data restrictions, battery optimization, or outdated Google services.
Check the following settings:
- Update Google Play Services
Ensure Google Play Services is fully up to date, as Duo relies on it for push notifications.
- Toggle Wi-Fi or mobile data
Turn Wi-Fi off and back on, or switch briefly to cellular data, then test again.
- Clear Duo Mobile cache
- Open Settings
- Select Apps or Apps & notifications
- Choose Duo Mobile
- Tap Storage
- Select Clear Cache
Check Background Data and Battery Settings
If you see an error stating that a Wi-Fi or cellular connection is required, Duo Mobile may be restricted from using background data.
- Ensure Background data is enabled for Duo Mobile
- If Data Saver is enabled, allow Unrestricted data usage for Duo Mobile
You can usually find these settings under:
Settings > Apps > Duo Mobile > Data usage
Additionally, disable battery optimization for Duo Mobile if enabled. Power-saving features can prevent notifications from waking the device.
If Pull-to-Refresh Does Not Work
If pull-to-refresh does not show pending requests and you receive an error message, the Duo account on your device may need to be reactivated.
Note:
Even if push notifications stop working, Duo passcodes generated in the app may still function.
To restore push notifications, reactivate Duo Mobile using the self-service portal.
Follow the instructions in Managing Your Devices in Duo to reactivate your device.
Important:
Duo push notifications are only used for Duo-protected SFA applications. Third-party accounts use passcodes and do not send push notifications.
Related Duo Articles
- Using Duo Verified Push
- What to Do If You Receive an Unexpected Duo Prompt
- Duo Restore for Android
Need Help?
Contact the IT Help Desk at (936) 468-4357 (HELP).