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Set up 2-Step Verification

Learn how to set up 2-Step Verification, and how using it helps prevent your account from being accessed.

Features are subject to availability. The steps may look different depending on your device.

  1. Step 1 of 9

    2-Step Verification (also known as two-factor authentication) is an extra layer of security for your account.

    2-Step Verification helps keep out anyone who shouldn’t have access to your account by requiring you to verify access to a trusted device or token after you enter your password. Because 2-Step Verification requires both something you know and something you have, it’s much harder for hackers to gain access. This way, even if your password is stolen, a hacker won’t be able to sign in to your account without the physical device or token.

    Setting up 2-Step Verification dramatically increases your protection against cyber attacks.

    To start, sign in to your Google Account and tap Security at the top.

  2. Step 2 of 9

    Scroll down to “Signing in to Google” and tap 2-Step Verification.

  3. Step 3 of 9

    This page contains a summary of how 2-Step Verification protects your account.

    Tap Get started.

  4. Step 4 of 9

    You may be asked to verify your identity by entering your password before continuing.

    There are a few different options you can use for a second step. We recommend you use Google prompts as your primary second factor, but that you set up multiple verification methods for increased protection against phishing, or in the case that you can’t get Google prompts or lose your phone.

    Prompts will be sent directly to any device where you are signed in. Just tap the notification to review and sign in. This is the easiest way to help protect your account. Learn more about which devices can use Google Prompts.

    Tap Continue.

  5. Step 5 of 9

    You can also tap Show more options to see other steps available to you. Other than Google prompts, you can set up the following options as your second factor:

  6. Step 6 of 9

    To add a phone number as a backup option in case your second step is unavailable, verify your number.

    Tap Send to get a code via text message.

    Tip: You can also get a code via phone call. Select Phone call and then tap Send.

  7. Step 7 of 9

    Enter the code and tap Next.

  8. Step 8 of 9

    Review the options you’ve set up and the device or devices you’ll be signed in on. Then tap Turn on.

  9. Step 9 of 9

    You have successfully set up 2-Step Verification. Next, generate and print out, download, or write down your backup codes. These are single-use codes used to access your account if you ever lose your phone, factory reset it, or are offline.

    Other 2-Step Verification steps rely on your phone or device, but backup codes are the only way to make sure you don’t get locked out if you can’t access them. You can store them in your wallet, a safe, a password manager, and anywhere else they will be safe. Learn more about backup codes.

    Other steps you can set up include:

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