When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn 
Knowing how to set up and use Google Authenticator can make a big difference to your digital security by providing an extra layer of protection for your accounts. Google Authenticator generates unique, time-sensitive verification codes each time you log in. These codes expire after a short period, and when you have them set up on an account, you’ll need to enter a verification code along with your password to gain access.
Many of the best password managers are compatible with Google Authenticator, making the login process even more convenient. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to set up Google Authenticator on your phone.
Total Password – Robust Solution for Comprehensive Password Security
How To Set Up and Use Google Authenticator – Quick Steps
- Download the Google Authenticator app
- Enable 2FA authentication in your Google account
- Choose the Authenticator app option
- Add Google Authenticator to your password manager
How To Set Up Google Authenticator – A Step-By-Step Guide
Google Authenticator is an app that enables multi-factor authentication. It generates a time-based one-time code to use alongside your usual login credentials. This makes it much harder for hackers to break into your accounts, even if they do have your password.
Follow these steps to set up Google Authenticator for your accounts:
Download the Google Authenticator App
Install the Google Authenticator app on your smartphone from the Apple App Store (iOS) or the Google Play Store (Android). The app is free and easy to set up – just click the Install button.
Enable 2FA Authentication in Your Google Account
- Sign in to your Google account
- In the left-hand side navigation panel, click Security
- Under the Signing in to Google section, click 2-Step Verification
- Click the Turn on 2-Step Verification button
- Google will ask you to re-enter your password to confirm it’s really you
Choose the Authenticator App Option and Scan QR Code
- Select Authenticator from the list of options in Second Steps
- Click on Set up authenticator
- Open the Google Authenticator app on your phone and scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen
The authenticator app is now set up on your device and can be accessed even if you don’t have a network or cellular connection.
Add Google Authenticator to Your Password Manager
When you set up Google Authenticator with your password manager, it securely stores the relevant information to generate the same time-sensitive codes or QR codes as the Authenticator app on your phone. This makes it much easier to access the authenticator on a new device.
When you log into a website, your password manager can automatically fill in the current valid code along with your username and password, making the whole process more convenient.
To add Google Authenticator to a password manager such as LogMeOnce, follow these steps:
- Go to the Settings for your password manager
- Select Two-Factor Authentication from the side menu
- Enable Google Authenticator / TOTP
- A QR code will be displayed
- In Google Authenticator, click + and choose Scan a QR code
- Scan the QR code on the screen with your mobile device to complete the setup process
You’ll now be able to automatically access Google Authenticator codes and manage multiple accounts wtih ease. The process will be similar for other password managers that support Google Authenticator integration.
Using Google Authenticator With Your Password Manager
Now that you’ve integrated Google Authenticator with your password manager, the process of logging into a website will typically run as follows:
- Navigate to the website you want to log into.
- Your password manager will detect the login fields and offer to fill in your username and password automatically.
- Your password manager will simultaneously pull the current secret key from your Google Authenticator app and fill in the appropriate field.
- All you have to do is review the information and click the Login button or similar. The website will verify your password and the one-time code from Google Authenticator, granting you access.
Many password managers will let you use two-factor authentication to secure your password vault, and some – like NordPass and 1Password – also have their own One-Time Password tools for multi-factor authentication to serve in place of Google Authenticator.
For more advice on password security, see our guide on how hackers steal passwords.
- Starting from $1.99/month
- Starting from $2.99/month
- Starting from $1.49/month
Summary – How To Use the Google Authenticator App
Setting up Google Authenticator is a simple yet effective way to enhance the security of your online accounts. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you can enable 2FA and protect your accounts from unauthorized access.
Linking your Google Authenticator account with the best password managers will further enhance your security while making the process faster and more efficient.
For further guidance on securing your online accounts, check out our other helpful resources, such as our guides on the best Firefox password managers and the best free password managers.
