Google Authenticator is a top ten utility app that works via your Google Account to provide an extra layer of two-step verification security when you sign in.
When activated, two-step verification means signing in to your Google account involves both a password and a verification code generated by the app. Once the app is configured, the app generates verification codes without needing your phone to have an internet connection.
Automatic QR code-based set up
Supports multiple Google accounts
Supports the generation of counter and time-based verification codes
Transfers accounts between various devices using a QR code.
You can opt to get verification codes sent via SMS or in a phone call. Or you can skip codes altogether and use a Security Key similar to a removable USB stick that you insert into the computer’s USB port.
By way of adding backup systems, Google Authenticator lets you nominate other phone numbers in case your regular phone is unavailable. And if you are traveling and may not phone signal, you also have the option of printing or downloading one-time passcodes.
However, if this all sounds like a load of hassle, you could opt instead for Google Prompt. This feature is a push notification system that sends an alert when a new log-in attempt is detected on your Google account.
The notification lists where the log-in attempt was made, and you have the option of approving or denying the attempt.
Extra security layer
Dark mode
Multi-language support
It’s free
The app generates codes without a mobile internet connection
Option to use a physical Security Key instead of codes
App store ratings are so so
It can be a pain if you have many devices
The Google Authenticator app is downloadable for Android and iOS at Google Play and Apple’s App Store.
The Android app’s requirements vary by device. At Google Play, the app gets ranked at 3.9 out of five.
Apple users need to set aside 22 MB of storage space for the app, which requires iOS 11.0 or later. They are even less enthusiastic than Android users, giving Google Authenticator an average of 2.5 out of five.
You can also use Google Authenticator on a Blackberry.
The Google Authenticator app requires that you enable your Google account for two-step verification. Google has more information on 2-step verification here.
During the sign-in process, you can elect to register your computer, so you don’t have to go through two-step verification again on that particular computer. Handy, say, for a home desktop computer. But Google will still ask for a verification code or Security Key on your other devices.
Security keys, though, need to be purchased separately and cost around $25. They do have drawbacks, however.
While in some cases, you can Bluetooth the key and computer together; you still have to keep it safe and lug it around everywhere.
You can also use Google Authenticator with several other sites, including Twitter which introduced two-factor verification with Google Authenticator and other third-party apps.
