What is 2-Factor Authentication? (explanation & setup tutorial)

If you're not using 2-Factor Authentication for online security, you're doing something WRONG! Learn what is two-factor authentication and how to set up all three types of 2FA in this simple, step-by-step tutorial!

If you care about your personal security and privacy online, download my free security checklist here:

🔹🔹🔹Additional Information🔹🔹🔹

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Video Timestamps
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0:00 - Introduction
0:19 - 2-Factor Authentication Definition
0:37 - Text Message 2 Factor Authentication
1:05 - Authenticator App for 2-Factor Authentication
1:35 - Security Key for 2-Factor Authentication
2:16 - How to Set Up 2-Factor Authentication
3:58 - Tips for Using 2-Factor Authentication
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By definition, 2-factor authentication is a method by which an institution, website, social media platform or other application verifies your identity beyond the first step of using your password.

Two-factor authentication (also shortened as 2FA) is an added layer of security to make sure that even if somebody where to steal or crack your password, they still wouldn't be able to log into your bank, email or other account.

There are three primary methods of doing 2-factor authentication:

1) Text message: You can set up the account with your phone number so that each time you want to log in, you'll receive a text message code that you input to verify your identity.

2) Authenticator App: You can set up an app like Google Authenticator that will provide a new code every 15 seconds that you input to give access to your account.

3) Security Key: The final and most secure way to implement 2-factor authentication is using a security key. This key must be plugged into your device in order to log into an account, verifying that you are, in fact, the person who has the right to log into that account.
 
No matter which method of 2FA you choose, it's important that you use one of them on your most important online logins such as banking, investments, email and maybe even social media.

Hopefully, this video giving you a better understanding and showing you how to set up 2-factor authentication has been helpful! Remember to like the video if it was helpful and leave a comment if you have any questions!

[travelwell]

My workplace recently implemented 2fa for everyone. I had it set up as sms but I am picking up a usb key next week, which I hope will be more convenient.
This video is therefore very useful, thank you.

[kenjones]

I just watched two of your videos as I installed NordPass today in place of another password manager. Your insight and guidance turned out to be a big help to me, as I was missing one step in using it. This led me to your other videos which are very helpful.

[timothyr]

Hey Josh, was looking for a simple video to share with a family member who is not using any 2FA to explain the basics. Found this one, but watching it I wonder if this is a video you want to update or recreate? Notice you don't mention as you normally would that text 2FA is not preferable. And you also mention using Google Authenticator and Google's security keys. Both of which I imagine you would no longer endorse given other videos you've done since then. Appreciate all that you put out! Super helpful!

[FAS]

Thanks for the video. You may easily enable 2fa for various services and it adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts

[Gaivota]

Can you use the Google Authenticator with an iPhone only? I can’t find a way to scan a QR code using only my phone. I see you scanned it from your computer but I want to scan it from one app into another using just my phone. Is that doable?
Also, if I chose the key, do I need a computer to set it up? I mean, a phone doesn’t have a USB port.
Thanks

[virtuabutch]

made the jump to 2FA. this vid was very helpful!

[WLatu-kzse]

at 1'18'' you're saying "you scan a QR code" - what code? what to do to have it displayed on my PC? I understand the app I downloaded will ask for it, but what will display it on my PC?

[bluedayintertechpro]

What if I unstall and install again, does it needed any login ID sir or what will happen...?

[jeannotm.ngweji]

wait a minute did you use a security key on a laptop that looked to be OFF? i just didn't quite see what you did with the security key

[tiang]

Should we put phone number as 2FA methods/ setting?

[angiechapman-szgi]

My computer crashed a few weeks ago. I am usually TECH SAVVY. The 2-step process with the codes has been a nightmare! In a few days, I will LITERALLY buy the security key option, for lap top AND FB

[psychochippy]

Rather like what you're doing but I'm already stumped at 2.5 min in. Where is the 2FA page on FB and why would I want such a thing on there?

[davidsutton]

I ama a senior person (84) still a little confused will still need to insert 6 digit code manually or does Yubico do this form me?

[pooyanassim]

Hi MR i can't login to my Facebook account because need an authentication security key but I never enable it and now i can't access to my account I need your guide how I can regain my access in Facebook thank you so much

[chrisbdsirhc]

Software 2FA totally useless if someone has stolen your phone

[jackt]

If you want to log into Windows remotely, I don't see the fob method working.

[LiveinlightRae]

This is some bull crap!! So much BS to get in an account!!