How To Use Google Authenticator On PC

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Introduction to Google Authenticator

Google Authenticator generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) for two-factor authentication (2FA). It is widely supported by services like Google, Amazon, and Dropbox. The app scans a QR code provided by the service you want to secure, generating a unique six-digit code needed to complete the login process.

Advantages of Using Google Authenticator

1. Security: Offers a more secure 2FA method compared to SMS verification codes, which can be intercepted or spoofed.
2. Convenience: Generates codes without requiring an internet connection, useful in areas with poor network coverage.
3. Cross-Platform Compatibility: Syncs codes across multiple devices, allowing use on both phone and PC.

Setting Up Google Authenticator on a PC

Although no official Google Authenticator application exists for Windows, web browser extensions and third-party applications can be used effectively.

Using Web Browser Extensions

1. Install the Extension:

   • Search for the Google Authenticator app in Chrome.
   • Click “Add to Chrome” and confirm the installation by clicking “Add Extension.”

2. Pin the Extension:

   • The extension will appear in your toolbar. Pin it using the push pin icon for easy access.

3. Set Up Two-Factor Authentication:

   • Visit the login page of the service supporting Google Authenticator.
   • When prompted for 2FA, a QR code will appear.
   • Click the Authenticator extension and the Scan QR Code icon.
   • Use your mouse to scan the QR code on your screen.

4. Generate and Use Codes:

   • The Authenticator app will generate a six-digit code for login.
   • Enter the code each time you log in to complete the process.

Using Third-Party Applications

WinAuth is a popular third-party application supporting Google Authenticator codes.

1. Download and Install WinAuth:

   • Download and install WinAuth on your computer.
   • Open WinAuth, click “Add,” and select “Google” from the list.

2. Enter the Code:

   • Enter the code generated on your phone.
   • Click “Verify Authenticator” to complete the setup.

3. Set Up in Google Account:

   • Return to Google’s security page and click “Next.”
   • Enter the code from WinAuth to finalize the setup.

Steps to Use Google Authenticator on a PC

Step 1: Generate a PIN on Your Phone

1. Download the App:

   • Available for both Android and iOS, download Google Authenticator from PlayStore or App Store.

2. Generate a PIN:

   • Open the app and tap “Get Started.”
   • Log in with your Google account or use the app without logging in.

3. Add Accounts:

   • Select the online account to set up with Google Authenticator.
   • Scan a QR code or manually enter the code.

Step 2: Set Up Two-Factor Authentication on Your PC

Using Web Browser Extensions

1. Install the Extension:

   • Search for the Google Authenticator app in Chrome.
   • Click “Add to Chrome” and confirm the installation.

2. Pin the Extension:

   • Pin the extension in your toolbar for easy access.

3. Set Up Two-Factor Authentication:

   • Visit the login page of the service supporting Google Authenticator.
   • Scan the QR code using the Authenticator extension.

4. Generate and Use Codes:

   • The Authenticator app will generate a six-digit code for login.
   • Enter the code each time you log in.

Using Third-Party Applications

1. Download and Install WinAuth:

   • Download and install WinAuth on your computer.
   • Open WinAuth, click “Add,” and select “Google.”

2. Enter the Code:

   • Enter the code generated on your phone.
   • Click “Verify Authenticator” to complete the setup.

3. Set Up in Google Account:

   • Return to Google’s security page and click “Next.”
   • Enter the code from WinAuth to finalize the setup.

Managing and Transferring Codes

Synchronizing Codes Across Devices

1. Sign In to Your Google Account:

   • Sign in to your Google Account within the Google Authenticator app.

2. Sync Codes Automatically:

   • Codes will sync across all devices connected to the same Google account.

Manually Transferring Codes

1. Create a QR Code on Your Old Device:

   • Open Google Authenticator, go to the menu, and select “Transfer accounts.”
   • Choose “Export accounts” and unlock your device.

2. Scan the QR Code on Your New Device:

   • On the new device, open Google Authenticator and select “Transfer accounts.”
   • Scan the QR code created on the old device.

3. Confirm Transfer:

   • After scanning, confirmation will appear that codes have been transferred.

Organizing and Editing Codes

Organizing Codes

1. Swipe Left to Edit:

   • On Android, swipe left on any code to show the edit option.
   • Update the username or change the associated Google Account.

2. Delete Unused Codes:

   • Click the pencil button next to the code you want to delete.
   • Select unused verification codes and click the delete button.