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In essence, Google Authenticator generates random codes used to verify the identity of users when logging into services like Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Technically, users can use codes sent to their registered phone numbers for authentication.
However, 2-factor authentication via SMS is known to have security loopholes. Moreover, attackers can exploit devices to retrieve authentication codes. The Google Authenticator app uses algorithms to generate codes on your phone, preventing potential attacks such as SMS-based vulnerabilities.
Refer to the Mytour article below to explore how to create and use Google Authenticator.
Creating and Using Google Authenticator
Follow the steps below to set up and utilize Google Authenticator:
Step 1:Download and install the Google Authenticator app on your device.
- Download Google Authenticator for Android from here.
- Download Google Authenticator for iPhone from here.
Step 2: Next, set up 2-step verification on your Google account by logging in. In the Security and Sign-In section, select Two-Step Verification, then scroll down to choose Authenticator app.
Step 3: Choose your Android or iPhone.
Step 4: Open the Google Authenticator app installed on your phone, then press the plus icon.
Step 5: At the bottom of the screen, you'll find 2 options: Scan barcode and Manual entry.
Your task is to choose one of these options to complete the process. If you choose Scan barcode, it will take longer as users need to download a QR code scanning app, then scan the QR code on the computer to authenticate the connection of Google Authenticator with the account.
If you opt for Manual Entry, Google will send you a 16-digit code to your email. Your task is to enter this code to complete the authentication process.
Ensure that the Time-Based option is activated to ensure the entered code is the most recently generated code by Authenticator.
From now on, every time you log into an account connected to Google Authenticator, you'll be prompted to enter a 6-digit authentication code. Simply open Google Authenticator, and the app will generate a new random authentication code for your login.
The above Mytour article just guided you on how to create and use Google Authenticator. Additionally, if you have any comments or questions needing clarification, readers can leave their thoughts in the comment section below the article.
