GOOGLE ACCOUNT GUIDE
Turn on Google 2FA
Google calls two-factor authentication 2-Step Verification. Here’s how to turn it on and keep a backup way to sign in.
Enable 2-Step Verification
- Open myaccount.google.com and sign in.
- Go to Security & sign-in (in the left menu, or under Security).
- Under How you sign in to Google, choose 2-Step Verification / Turn on 2-Step Verification.
- Re-enter your password if asked, then follow the prompts.
Pick a second step
Prefer a security key or passkey when available. Here’s how the options compare.
| Method | What to know |
|---|---|
| Security key / passkey | Strongest protection against phishing. Use a physical key or a passkey unlocked with your device’s screen lock, fingerprint, or face. |
| Google Prompt | Approve a sign-in on a signed-in phone. Easy and safer than SMS. Only approve sign-ins you started. |
| Authenticator app | Codes from Google Authenticator (or a similar app). Works offline. |
| Text / call | Less secure because of risks such as SIM swapping. Prefer another method as your main option. |
Google recommends prompts over SMS if you’re not using a passkey.
After it’s on (don’t skip)
- Save backup codes. On the same 2-Step Verification page, choose Backup codes, generate them, and store them somewhere safe—not only on your phone.
- Add a second method. For example, use an authenticator and a prompt. Keep a backup you can access if your phone is lost; two methods on the same phone may both become unavailable.
- Check older apps. If an older app stops working after you enable 2FA, you may need an App Password from your Google Account security settings, if available for your account.
Work / school accounts
If it’s a Google Workspace account and the option is missing or blocked, your admin must allow 2-Step Verification first. You still turn it on at myaccount.google.com, not in the Admin console.
Quick tips
- Prefer a prompt or authenticator over SMS as your main method.
- Keep backup codes printed in a safe place or in a password manager you can access without your phone.
- You can change or add methods anytime on the same 2-Step Verification page.