Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an extra layer of security for your online account by requesting a second access token, on a separate device. A password for your password, in a sense.
Here is your short guide to enabling 2FA on your Google account.
How 2FA works
Two-factor authentication works by locking your account with two separate "factors". In this case, a factor is “something you know” (eg Password), “something you have” (eg Phone) or “something you are” (eg fingerprint). You have the best protection that combines two of these factors.
How to set up 2FA on Google
Your Google accounts can use different 2FA schemes. The first is to text you a one-time code for each time you log into your Google account from a new device. But if you don't want to log in all the time by typing the code, there are other much faster authentication methods that we are going to explain how to activate.
Google Prompt
The first is through the newer Google Prompt system. Instead of sending a one-time code, you get a Google Prompt on your separate device. Just unlock your phone and tap Yes to unlock your account.
Go to yours, select Safety , then under the heading Log in to Google select Two-step verification. You will need to log into your account again using your current password. Then select Try Now to send a Google Prompt message to the listed device.
Once you have accepted the Google Prompt, you will encounter another screen where you will be asked if you want to enable XNUMX-Step Verification. (Some users may encounter a screen asking them to confirm their mobile number via SMS, do so, and then continue.) Select Activate.
Authenticator App
https://youtu.be/17rykTIX_HY
Some users may prefer to use a different 2FA system. One such option is the Google Authenticator app. The Authenticator app generates a six-digit code for logging into your account, but you must have your phone with you for the system to work.
Before starting the 2FA procedure of the Authenticator app, you need to download the app on your phone.
Download: Google Authenticator for |
Once the app is downloaded, go back to your Google account (as above), select Safety and under the heading Access to Google , select Two-step verification . You'll need to log into your account using your new Google Prompt, but from there you'll be able to access your two-step verification settings.
Scroll down and select the Authenticator app, then select the type of phone you have (Android or iPhone). A QR code will appear. Open the Authenticator app on your phone, select the + symbol to add a new email address, then select Scan a Barcode. Use the app to scan the QR code on the screen and you will see that it instantly adds the account to the app.
Every time you log into your Google account, you need to provide the code Google Authenticator six-digit.
If you don't have the code, you won't be logged into your account.
Conclusions
As you see log into your Google account with enhanced security it's simple and we recommend it. You don't have to type in a code but just press a button on your authentication-enabled smartphone or device.
