Does Google work with authenticator apps like MS Authenticator App?

Yes. Google supports TOTP authenticator apps, so you can generate its two-factor codes in MS Authenticator App.

Is Google two-factor authentication free?

Yes. Enabling authenticator-app 2FA on Google is free — you only need the free MS Authenticator App.

What if I lose access to my Google 2FA codes?

Use the backup or recovery codes you saved during setup. If you didn't save them, contact Google support to regain access, then re-add the account to MS Authenticator App.

Should I use an authenticator app or a security key on Google?

Google supports both. An authenticator app like MS Authenticator App is free and works on any phone; a hardware security key adds phishing resistance. You can enable both.

How to enable 2FA on Google

← Google overview Supported

Enable two-factor authentication on Google to stop unauthorized logins. After setup, Google asks for a rotating code from MS Authenticator App in addition to your password.

Step-by-step setup

1
Locate 2FA Settings
When logged into your Google or Gmail account, click on your account icon at the top right of the screen. Then click Manage your Google Account.
2
2-Step Verification
Go to Security, next press on 2-Step Verification in the Security section.
3
Get Started
Click on Get Started.
4
Confirm Password
Next, you will need to renter your Google password and click on Next.
5
Confirm your phone number
Enter your phone number and choose the method to get a verification code and click Next.
6
Verify your phone number
Google will send you a 6 digit security code. Enter that code into the verification field and press on Next.
7
Turn On
Click on Turn On.
8
Choose MS Authenticator App
Now from available second steps options find MS Authenticator App, and click Set Up.
9
Select Device
Choose the type of device you are authenticating with and click Next.
10
QR Code
A pop-up window will appear for you to scan the QR Code with MS Authenticator App. Keep this window open as you reach for your phone. This is a good example of how other sites will prompt you to use Google Authenticator for two-factor authentication. While it makes sense that Google would want to promote their own app, remember that you can always substitute it with MS MS Authenticator App instead.
11
Capture QR Code
Open MS Authenticator App and at the bottom of the screen, tap the plus button and hold your device up to the computer screen to scan the QR code. If you are unable to scan the QR code, you can import the QR code in MS Authenticator App from Files, tap the plus sign in MS Authenticator App and choose Files and follow the instructions.
12
Two-Factor Authentication Code (2FA)
After successfully scanning the QR Code, MS Authenticator App will automatically choose the Google logo and autofill account name and secret key. If you want you can change the icon or the account name. Press on Save when ready.
13
Verify Your Code
Copy the numerical code provided from MS Authenticator App and confirm it on the Google website and then click Verify. Note that this code refreshes every 30 seconds.
14
Done!
You have successfully turned on 2-step verification for your Google account, from now on, you will need to use the MS Authenticator App when you log in.

Menu names on Google can change — the official Google 2FA documentation ↗ always has the exact, current path.

Frequently asked questions

Does Google work with authenticator apps like MS Authenticator App?: Yes. Google supports TOTP authenticator apps, so you can generate its two-factor codes in MS Authenticator App.
Is Google two-factor authentication free?: Yes. Enabling authenticator-app 2FA on Google is free — you only need the free MS Authenticator App.
What if I lose access to my Google 2FA codes?: Use the backup or recovery codes you saved during setup. If you didn't save them, contact Google support to regain access, then re-add the account to MS Authenticator App.
Should I use an authenticator app or a security key on Google?: Google supports both. An authenticator app like MS Authenticator App is free and works on any phone; a hardware security key adds phishing resistance. You can enable both.

Generate your Google codes in MS Authenticator App

Free, offline, and encrypted. One tap for every 6-digit code.

Get the app

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