Does IBM Cloud work with authenticator apps like MS Authenticator App?

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

Is IBM Cloud two-factor authentication free?

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

What if I lose access to my IBM Cloud 2FA codes?

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

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

IBM Cloud 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 IBM Cloud

← IBM Cloud overview Supported

IBM Cloud 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 IBM Cloud account.

Step-by-step setup

1
Sign in to IBM Cloud and open your IBM Cloud account security settings.
2
Turn on two-factor authentication and choose the authenticator-app option.
Look for "Authenticator app", "Authentication app", or "TOTP" rather than SMS.
3
Scan the QR code with MS Authenticator App.
Open MS Authenticator App, tap add, and point your camera at the QR code IBM Cloud displays. Can't scan? Enter the setup key manually instead.
4
Enter the 6-digit code to confirm.
Type the code MS Authenticator App generates to verify and link your IBM Cloud account.
5
Save your backup codes.
Store the recovery codes IBM Cloud gives you somewhere safe — you'll need them if you lose your phone.

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

Frequently asked questions

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

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

Get the app

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