Google Authenticator QR Code: How Two-Factor Authentication Works

A password is not enough protection against data breaches and phishing attacks nowadays. Even the strongest passwords can easily end up in the wrong hands and so two-factor authentication, or 2FA, adds an additional layer of protection, even if a password is compromised. 

Google Authenticator is one of the most commonly known and used tools for protecting data. If you have ever been asked to scan a QR code when you set up security on an app or website, there’s a good possibility that Google Authenticator was used. 

What is Two-Factor Authentication? 

Two-factor authentication is a security measure that requires you to verify your identity in two different ways before you’re granted access to an account. 

The first is what you’ll already have, a password. The second is something you’ll also have, your phone or device. If someone gets hold of your password, they won’t have access to your account without the access to the second factor. It’s like a bank vault with two locks. One key won’t work alone, both are required. 

2FA has become a standard security recommendation across banking, email, social media and business softwares. Enabling two-factor authentication has the power to block over 99% of automated account attacks. 

What is Google Authenticator?

Google Authenticator is a free app on iOS and Android that generates a time-based one-time passcode. They are six-digits that will refresh every 30 seconds, all unique to your account and device. When you log into a site that has 2FA enabled, you input your password as normal and are prompted to enter the code supplied by Google Authenticator.

As the code changes periodically, it’s extremely difficult for anyone else to use. The app works offline and can generate codes instantly, supporting as many accounts as you need. It’s supported across platforms like Gmail, Facebook, Shopify, Dropbox and more.

Where Does the Google Authenticator QR Code Come In?

Enabling 2FA on a website or app, you’re asked to link your authenticator app to that account. The Google Authenticator QR code is how the connection is made. 

Behind each QR code is a unique key, characters shared between the site and app from the setup. When you scan the Google Authenticator QR code, the app stores the key and uses it to generate the correct six-digit code every 30 seconds for that account. 

The website or app also does the same process, checking the code and making sure it matches what it is expecting. If it does, you’re into the account with no hassle.

It is worth noting that you only need to scan the QR code once as after this, the app handles everything else automatically. 

How to Set Up Google Authenticator

1. Download the app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). It’s free and requires no account or sign in to use. 
2. Enable 2FA on your account by logging into the account you want to protect and turn it on in the app settings. 
3. Scan the Google Authenticator QR code on screen with your camera. The account is then added automatically. 
4. Enter the confirmation code provided and now the 2FA is activated. 

Best Practices 

• Save backup codes somewhere safe so if you ever lose access to your phone, the codes are still accessible. 
• Don’t rely on one device, if you lose it, you could be locked out of any account linked to it. 
• Use 2FA on your most important accounts first such as emails and banking as these are the most common targets. 
• Keep it app itself safe with a screenlock or facial recognition. 

What if You Lose Access to Your Authenticator App?

Most platforms have recovery processes for this and typically involves using a backup email address or phone number. This is why saving your codes as a backup is crucial so you can get back into these accounts immediately, without the need to go through a verification process. 

Most platforms have recovery processes for this and typically involves using a backup email address or phone number. This is why saving your codes as a backup is crucial so you can get back into these accounts immediately, without the need to go through a verification process. 

Google Authenticator Isn’t The Only Option

Two-factor authentication is one of the most effective ways to secure your online accounts. Google Authenticator QR codes make it simple to get setup. The setups also only take a few moments per account but its protection is lifelong. It’s a small investment that pays off should you ever get compromised. 

Set it up, save your backup codes, stay protected.