Authenticator app for Mastodon
How to set up or enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for Mastodon
To keep your Mastodon account secure, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This page explains how Mastodon 2FA works, which methods Mastodon supports, and how to protect and recover your account. The most secure option is an authenticator app: store your Mastodon 2FA codes in MS Authenticator App and generate a fresh 6-digit code every time you sign in.
2FA methods Mastodon supports
- Authenticator app (TOTP)
- Security key (U2F / WebAuthn)
An authenticator app (TOTP) is the sweet spot: free, offline, and not vulnerable to SIM-swap attacks like SMS.
How to enable or set up 2FA for Mastodon
Mastodon supports two-factor authentication. Follow our step-by-step Mastodon guide, or read the official Mastodon documentation ↗ for the exact, up-to-date steps.
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.
Topics covered
- mastodon 2fa
- mastodon two-factor authentication
- mastodon 2fa setup
- mastodon authenticator app
- how to enable 2fa on mastodon
- mastodon account security
Other Social services
Data: 2fa.directory
Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only, to help you secure your accounts.
Novaz is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with Mastodon, or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates.
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