Set up Google Authenticator - how it works

You can set up the Google Authenticator quickly. This increases the security of your Google account or other services. We explain to you in this practical tip how exactly this works.

Google Authenticator for a secure account

With the Google Authenticator, your account is protected by an additional mechanism: The app generates a code on your smartphone that you must enter into your Google account when you log in. Before doing this, however, you have to set up the confirmation in two steps:

1. Log in to your Google account.
2. Click on Security in the menu bar.
3. In the Sign in to Google area, select 2-step verification .
4. Click Start Now .
5. You have the choice: A linked Android device, a security key, an SMS or an audio call can be used for registration.
6. The next step will ask you to set a replacement option. This can be another telephone number. Then activate the confirmation in two steps with another click.

Google Authenticator - protection for Android and iOS

The mobile app is available for Android and iOS. It is quick to set up and increases the security of your Google account:

1. Download the Authenticator app for Android or iOS.
2. Add your Google account by selecting the Scan barcode or Enter key option. If your smartphone has a working camera, you should choose the barcode variant.
3. On your PC, select Security in the Google account from the menu bar and then two-step confirmation .
4. In the Authenticator app section, click Set up and select your smartphone type.
5. You will now see a barcode on the monitor, which you can scan via the Authenticator app using the smartphone camera. Then click Add Account.