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How To Use Google Authenticator On PC
Modified: September 5, 2024
Learn how to use Google Authenticator on your PC with our step-by-step guide. Enhance your security for software and apps with this helpful tool.
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Table of Contents
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.
Read more: Using Google Authenticator for Twitter
Advantages of Using Google Authenticator
- Security: Offers a more secure 2FA method compared to SMS verification codes, which can be intercepted or spoofed.
- Convenience: Generates codes without requiring an internet connection, useful in areas with poor network coverage.
- 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
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Install the Extension:
- Search for the Google Authenticator app in Chrome.
- Click “Add to Chrome” and confirm the installation by clicking “Add Extension.”
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Pin the Extension:
- The extension will appear in your toolbar. Pin it using the push pin icon for easy access.
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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.
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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.
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Download and Install WinAuth:
- Download and install WinAuth on your computer.
- Open WinAuth, click “Add,” and select “Google” from the list.
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Enter the Code:
- Enter the code generated on your phone.
- Click “Verify Authenticator” to complete the setup.
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Set Up in Google Account:
- Return to Google’s security page and click “Next.”
- Enter the code from WinAuth to finalize the setup.
Read more: How to Backup Google Authenticator
Steps to Use Google Authenticator on a PC
Step 1: Generate a PIN on Your Phone
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Download the App:
- Available for both Android and iOS, download Google Authenticator from PlayStore or App Store.
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Generate a PIN:
- Open the app and tap “Get Started.”
- Log in with your Google account or use the app without logging in.
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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
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Install the Extension:
- Search for the Google Authenticator app in Chrome.
- Click “Add to Chrome” and confirm the installation.
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Pin the Extension:
- Pin the extension in your toolbar for easy access.
-
Set Up Two-Factor Authentication:
- Visit the login page of the service supporting Google Authenticator.
- Scan the QR code using the Authenticator extension.
-
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
-
Download and Install WinAuth:
- Download and install WinAuth on your computer.
- Open WinAuth, click “Add,” and select “Google.”
-
Enter the Code:
- Enter the code generated on your phone.
- Click “Verify Authenticator” to complete the setup.
-
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
Read more: Lost Phone? Use Google Authenticator
Synchronizing Codes Across Devices
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Sign In to Your Google Account:
- Sign in to your Google Account within the Google Authenticator app.
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Sync Codes Automatically:
- Codes will sync across all devices connected to the same Google account.
Manually Transferring Codes
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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.
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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.
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Confirm Transfer:
- After scanning, confirmation will appear that codes have been transferred.
Organizing and Editing Codes
Organizing Codes
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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.
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Delete Unused Codes:
- Click the pencil button next to the code you want to delete.
- Select unused verification codes and click the delete button.