Does Mastodon work with authenticator apps like MS Authenticator App?

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

Is Mastodon two-factor authentication free?

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

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

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

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

Mastodon 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 Mastodon

← Mastodon overview Supported

Mastodon lets you secure your account with an authenticator app. With 2FA on, each login needs a fresh 6-digit code, keeping your Mastodon account safe even if your password leaks.

Step-by-step setup

1
Sign in to Mastodon and open your Mastodon 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 Mastodon 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 Mastodon account.
5
Save your backup codes.
Store the recovery codes Mastodon gives you somewhere safe — you'll need them if you lose your phone.

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

Frequently asked questions

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

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

Get the app

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