Getting Started:
Your CINECA Account, Leonardo Access, and Two-Factor Authentication

Before you can log in to LEONARDO or any other CINECA supercomputer, you need to set up a CINECA UserDB account and enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This ensures secure and verified access to high-performance computing (HPC) resources.

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1. Creating a CINECA UserDB Account

Start by visiting the UserDB portal at https://userdb.hpc.cineca.it. Click “Create new user” and fill in your personal details. You will also need to upload a valid identity document (such as a passport or ID card) in the “Documents for HPC” section, and provide your institutional affiliation. Once this information is saved, your account registration is complete — but you do not yet have access to HPC systems.

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2. Linking Your Account to a Project

Access to CINECA systems is always granted through a project association.

• If you are a Principal Investigator (PI), you can request and manage your own project.
• If you are a collaborator, you will need the PI to add you to an existing project.

Once your account is linked to a project, this information will appear in your UserDB profile.

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3. Requesting HPC Access

After confirming your project association, open the “HPC Access” tab in the UserDB portal. The portal checks that all required fields (personal data, institution, identity document, and project link) are complete. When everything is in order, the “Submit” button becomes active, allowing you to request HPC access.

Once your request is approved, CINECA sends two emails:

1. One with your assigned HPC username, and
2. Another with a link to configure two-factor authentication (2FA) and set your password.

⚠️ The 2FA activation link is typically valid for 12 hours, so be sure to complete the process promptly.

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4. Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Follow the link in the email to the 2FA setup page. You’ll be prompted to:

1. Create your HPC password, and
2. Enable One-Time Password (OTP) generation.

To activate OTP, scan the QR code displayed on screen using an authenticator app such as FreeOTP or Google Authenticator, then enter the code shown in the app. Once successful, you’ll receive a set of recovery codes — store them safely for future use.

CINECA requires 2FA for all HPC access — you cannot log in using only a password.

For further information, have a look at the CINECA documentation