MS Authenticator App

How to enable 2FA on Google Cloud Platform

Google Cloud Platform supports app-based two-factor authentication (2FA). Turning it on adds a second layer of protection, so a stolen password alone can't unlock your Google Cloud Platform account.

Step-by-step setup

  1. 1

    Sign in to Google Cloud Platform and open your Google Cloud Platform account security settings.

  2. 2

    Turn on two-factor authentication and choose the authenticator-app option.

    Look for "Authenticator app", "Authentication app", or "TOTP" rather than SMS.

  3. 3

    Scan the QR code with MS Authenticator App.

    Open MS Authenticator App, tap add, and point your camera at the QR code Google Cloud Platform displays. Can't scan? Enter the setup key manually instead.

  4. 4

    Enter the 6-digit code to confirm.

    Type the code MS Authenticator App generates to verify and link your Google Cloud Platform account.

  5. 5

    Save your backup codes.

    Store the recovery codes Google Cloud Platform gives you somewhere safe — you'll need them if you lose your phone.

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

Frequently asked questions

Does Google Cloud Platform work with authenticator apps like MS Authenticator App?
Yes. Google Cloud Platform supports TOTP authenticator apps, so you can generate its two-factor codes in MS Authenticator App.
Is Google Cloud Platform two-factor authentication free?
Yes. Enabling authenticator-app 2FA on Google Cloud Platform is free — you only need the free MS Authenticator App.
What if I lose access to my Google Cloud Platform 2FA codes?
Use the backup or recovery codes you saved during setup. If you didn't save them, contact Google Cloud Platform 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 Cloud Platform?
Google Cloud Platform 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 Cloud Platform codes in MS Authenticator App

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

Get the app

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