How to set up Google Authenticator

what to know

• First, enable two-factor authentication for the account you want to protect. You will get a QR code or setup key.
• Then, install Google Authenticator and click on the plus sign . Capture code/key to save account.
• When you need a 2FA code to log into your account, find its entry in Google Authenticator.

This article will teach you how to get a code from Google Authenticator to log in to a 2FA-enabled account.

You need two things: the Google Authenticator app and the code from the account you want to add to the app. Let’s take a look at what the entire process looks like from start to finish:

1. Install Google Authenticator. The app is available for Android and iPhone:

2. Find the two-factor authentication QR code or long string of characters. Do this from the account you want to add to the authenticator app (e.g. Facebook, Amazon, your bank, etc.).
   

   

   Instructions for finding the 2FA setup code vary depending on the account you want to set up. It's usually found in the Security menu, but is also often seen during login or setup.

3. Open Google Authenticator and click on the + sign.

   If this is your first time using the app, you'll be asked if you want to sign in with a Google account or use an authenticator if you don't have an account. The choice is yours, but we recommend logging in to back up the code to your Google Account.

4. If you have a QR code, please select "Scan QR code" , otherwise click "Enter setup key" .

5. Scan the code or paste the key to set up your account.

   

Now that your account is linked to Google Authenticator, getting the 2FA code is easy.

1. Typically log in to your account using your username and password. You'll be prompted to complete two-factor authentication set up with Google Authenticator.

2. Open the Google Authenticator app on your phone, find the correct account, and write down the number provided by the app.

3. Return to the login screen and enter this six-digit number to complete the login process.

   

   Act quickly! You'll notice that the code expires approximately every minute. It's best to wait for the timer to reset to give yourself as much time as possible to enter the code.

In many cases, one-time access codes can be sent via text message to the phone number associated with your account, but the Google Authenticator app can deliver these codes on your smartphone.

These two-factor authentication codes ensure that no one else can access your account, as the third party will not only need your password, but also access to your phone to log in - something a remote hacker is unlikely to obtain.

Google Authenticator works with Google services and a variety of other online accounts, including Slack.