What Is Two-Factor Authentication?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of protection added to ensure that those trying to get access to an account are who they say they are. First, your password and username are entered. Then, instead of instantly gaining access to the account, you are required to provide another piece of information – for example, a code.
You can get the code via text messages or a specialized authenticator app that you can install on your mobile device. Once linked to your accounts, the app will generate a stream of random codes to be utilized whenever needed. This method does not require an Internet connection to give you the code.
To set up Facebook’s two-factor authentication, you’ll need to go through your account’s settings, whether you’re doing so on your PC or mobile. (We used an Android phone for this entire guide). Steps may vary depending on which device you’re using.
PC
If you go back the same route – “Settings & Privacy -> Settings -> Security & Login -> Two-factor authentication” – you’ll notice that you can now add a backup method so that you can log in even if your security method is not available. This includes Text Messages (SMS), Security Key and Recovery Codes. It may be a good idea to set one of these up just in case you can’t access your account the usual way.
Mobile
If you’re using Facebook on a mobile device, follow the below instructions:
Like Facebook, Twitter has its own 2FA option available. You can turn it on from both desktop and the mobile app.
PC
Note: you’ll need to use the latest version of a supported browser – such as Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Edge or Safari – to add or log in to your account with a security key.
Mobile
Follow the instructions below to enable 2FA on your mobile device.
It’s possible to enable 2FA in Instagram on PC and mobile. However, in the former scenario, you can only opt to receive a text message with the code you need for logging in.
PC
Mobile
To add extra 2FA protection to your Instagram account on mobile, follow the below instructions:
Snapchat
Privacy protection is a priority at Snapchat, so of course the app includes a 2FA feature. It’s available via the mobile app.
On WhatsApp, you can only enable the 2FA feature from the mobile app. Follow the steps below:
Telegram
Telegram’s 2FA function can be activated from the service’s desktop client or the mobile app by following the below instructions:
PC
Mobile
Signal
If you’re a Signal user, know that you can enable 2FA only when using the mobile app – but not from your PC. It may be hard to find this option because it’s not labelled as such. Note: currently, Signal doesn’t offer support for Authenticator apps or offer support for backup codes.
TikTok
TikTok also lets you secure your account using 2FA. Given that the service is mostly mobile-centric, you will need to use the app to enable the feature.
Discord
If you have a Discord account, know that it’s possible to apply 2FA protection to your account both from PC and mobile by following the steps below:
PC
Mobile
Twitch
If you’re on Twitch, here’s how you can add an extra layer of security through 2FA to your account on PC and mobile.
PC
Mobile
To enable Twitch on your mobile device, follow the instructions below.
Steam
Don’t want anyone accessing your gaming account without permission? Steam offers 2FA, as well, although it calls the option “Steam Guard.” Here’s how to enable it.
PC
With Linkedin, you need to have as much personal info as possible displayed on your profile to find a good job. With such sensitive information at risk, it’s a good idea to enable 2FA and can do so via desktop and mobile by following the steps below.
Desktop
Mobile
On mobile, the process differs a bit to enable 2FA.
1. Do I need to reset 2FA if get a new phone?
It depends. If you have Google Authenticator as your primary 2FA method on a certain account, you can transfer your current 2FA configuration to your new device. On the other hand, if your 2FA method is SMS and you have the same phone number on the new device, you won’t have to make any updates. If your new phone has a new number, then you’ll need to set up 2FA for the new phone number on most of your accounts.
2. What are some of the best authenticator apps out there?
Google Authenticator is a popular solution, but there are many other options to choose from. Check out our list here.
3. My six-digit authentication code is not working. What can I do?
The six-digit codes you create using the authenticator app expire after a certain amount of time. Make sure you use the code before it expires. On the other hand, note that authenticator apps tend to rely on the time set on your device when they create the code. If the time on your mobile doesn’t match the time on the PC, the code will not work. Therefore, you may need to make sure the two match by modifying one of them.
