get your google authenticator backup codes

#Get your google authenticator backup codes how to#

SEE: Explore TechRepublic Premium’s password management policy.

The list will also show you only those codes you have not used, as the rest will be listed as ALREADY USED. Once created, you may display your backup codes.

Otherwise, you may access the backup codes in the 2-Step Verification section ( Figure A, right).įigure A Either configure backup codes for the first time (left) or access existing backup codes (right).If you haven’t set up backup codes for your account, from the Security menu, select Backup codes from the How you sign in to Google section (Figure A, left).Select 2-Step Verification from the Security menu you may be prompted to log in once again.If you didn’t print out your backup codes upon setting up 2FA, the first thing you need to do is retrieve them. Note: If you have joined Google’s Advanced Protection Program or use security keys with your account, you may not be able to generate backup codes. These backup codes work, and when you run out, you can always generate more. You can use these codes instead of SMS 2FA. When you set up 2FA for Google, you are given the option to generate backup codes. For the more security-minded, this isn’t really a good option.įortunately, some services offer 2FA backup codes that can be used instead. Yet, some systems, such as banks, don’t support interaction with apps like Authy or Google Authenticator and insist on sending 2FA codes via SMS. Two-factor authentication via SMS, which can be intercepted, can be a less-than-ideal security measure.

#Get your google authenticator backup codes how to#

Learn how to retrieve your Google 2FA backup codes and how best to use them.