How to set up an authenticator app on Android
Authenticator apps generate codes that expire every 30 seconds and work without mobile signal. They cannot be intercepted the way SMS codes can.
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Before you start
You should have two-step verification already enabled on your Google account (see our Google 2FA guide). You will need to install an authenticator app: Google Authenticator or Aegis (free, open source) are both good choices.
Steps
Install Google Authenticator from the Google Play Store if you do not already have it.
Open a browser and go to myaccount.google.com.
Tap Security, then tap 2-Step Verification.
Sign in if prompted.
Scroll down to "Authenticator app" and tap Set up.
Tap Android, then tap Next.
Open Google Authenticator on your phone and tap the + button, then tap Scan a QR code.
Point your camera at the QR code shown on your screen.
Enter the 6-digit code shown in the app into the verification box on screen.
Tap Verify, then tap Done.
How to confirm it worked
- Authenticator app shows as an added second step in your Google account Security settings.
- The app shows a 6-digit code for your Google account that refreshes every 30 seconds.
Troubleshooting
- The QR code scan does not work.
- Tap "Can't scan it?" and enter the setup key manually instead.
- The code I enter is rejected.
- Make sure your phone's time is set to automatic (Settings > General management > Date and time > Automatic date and time). Code generation depends on accurate time.
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