Why Should You Use an Authenticator App and How Do You Set It Up?
What is an Authenticator App?
An authenticator app is a security tool that helps keep your online accounts safer by adding a second layer of protection — two-factor authentication (2FA).
This means that after entering your password, you’ll also need a unique code from your authenticator app to log in.
Authenticator apps create a new code every 30 seconds that you’ll use in addition to your account’s password to log in.
Why Set Up Two-Factor Authentication?
Think passwords alone are enough? Unfortunately, they’re not.
Even if you’ve chosen a strong password, hackers can still find ways to gain access to your accounts.
With 2FA, even if someone knows your password, they’ll still need that code from your authenticator app to get in — a second lock on your digital door.
Why Use an Authenticator App Instead of SMS Codes?
You might wonder — why not just use text messages for 2FA?
Well, text messages aren’t always secure. Hackers can intercept them, or even use a tactic called SIM-swapping to steal your phone number.
Security issues aside, text messages aren’t ideal if you’re trying to log in, in an area with poor mobile phone signal!
Authenticator apps, on the other hand, generate codes directly on your device, making it much harder for anyone else to see or use them — and will work even if you don’t have a signal!
Examples of Authenticator Apps
Here are some trusted, user-friendly authenticator apps widely recommended:
Google Authenticator
A simple option supported by many platforms and works well with Google services.
Microsoft Authenticator
Again, another good choice that’s easy to use — especially if you use Microsoft services.
FreeOTP
A simple to use alternative to the Google and Microsoft offering that is also widely supported.
Which one should you pick?
However, in truth, there is very little difference in how these apps work and the features offered, so it’s really down to personal preference.
How to Set Up an Authenticator App
Setting up an authenticator app is easier than you might think.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do this using your computer/tablet and smartphone together.
1. Download the App
Choose an app from the list above and download it from your app store.
2. Go to Account Security Settings
In the online account you want to secure, open the security settings, find ‘two-factor authentication’ (2FA), and select ‘Authenticator App’ as the method.
3. Scan the QR Code on the Screen
The website will display a barcode (QR code). Open the app, select ‘Add Account’ or ‘Scan QR Code’, and use your phone to scan it.
4. Confirm the Code
Once scanned, the app will start generating codes for that account. Enter the current code from the app back into the website to confirm setup.
Using Your First 2FA Code
When logging in, open the app, find the account, and enter the current code shown. Remember, the code refreshes every 30 seconds, so you’ll need to type it in promptly.
Wrapping Up
Taking a few minutes today to set up an authenticator app could save you a lot of stress in the future.
It’s a simple way to add an extra layer of security — and protect you and your business from potential hacks.
