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When to comes to cyber-security, one layer isn't enough. A complex passw0rd or one created with a password manager does a good job of protecting your phone data, but it can still be cracked. Two-step authentication strengthens this by adding a second layer of security, giving you even more protection against online threats and hackers.
With two-step authentication or 2FA, the service you are logging into will require two things to authenticate you: something you know and something you have. Your password serves as "something you know," and a 2FA app will prove the "something you have" aspect, requiring a device (such as your mobile phone) to be present before anyone can log into your account.
What is two-factor authentication?
"Two-factor authentication is one of the best things you can do to make sure your accounts don't get hacked" - LifeHacker1: Authy
The Authy app generates secure 2 step verification tokens on your device. It help’s you protect your account from hackers and hijackers by adding an additional layer of security. Defeat cyber criminals & avoid account takeovers with stronger security, for free! Authy brings the future of strong authentication to the convenience of your Android device.Get it on Smartphone: (Free)
Why Authy is the best multi-factor authentication app:
- Offline
- Secure Cloud Backups
- All of your accounts
- Protect your bitcoins (Cryptocurrency)
- Multi-Device Synchronization
- Available on Android and iOS
2: LastPass Authenticator
Just like Authy, LastPass supports encrypted backups. The only caveat is that it requires a LastPass account. While this isn't a big deal, it can be annoying to be forced to use a password manager you didn't wish to use in the first place. However, the password manager is free and easily one of the best on the Play store and App Store. LastPass Authenticator offers effortless two-factor authentication for your LastPass account and other supported apps. With one-tap verification and secure cloud backup, LastPass Authenticator gives you all the security, without any of the frustration.Get it on Smartphone: (Free)
Features:
- Generates 6-digit codes every 30 seconds
- Push notifications for one-tap approval
- Optional encrypted backup to restore your tokens on a new/reinstalled device
- Support for SMS codes
- Automated set-up via QR code
- Support for LastPass accounts
- Support for other TOTP-compatible services and apps (including any that support Google Authenticator)
- Add multiple accounts
- Available on Android and iOS
3: Duo Mobile
Duo Mobile works with Duo Security's two-factor authentication service to make logins more secure. The application generates secure passcodes for login and can receive push notifications for easy, one-tap authentication. Additionally, you can use the Duo Mobile App to manage two-factor authentication for other application and web services that make use of passcodes.Duo Mobile app is designed for enterprise, offering multiple packages suited for multiple users. As a complete picture, Duo Mobile app is a security platform to manage the access & authentication of multiple users. But, with the free version, it becomes an excellent 2FA app for consumers that is well designed and easy to use.
Get it on Smartphone: (Free)
Important Note: For Duo accounts, Duo Mobile needs to be activated and linked to your account before it will work. You will receive an activation link as part of Duo's enrollment process. You may add third-party accounts at any time. For the latest Terms and Conditions see here.
It also supports backups which are encrypted. The smart device you're using will determine where the backups are stored. For Android, the backups are stored on Google Drive. For iOS, the backups are stored on iCloud.
4: Microsoft Authenticator
Sign in is easy, convenient, and secure when you use the Microsoft Authenticator app. Use your phone, not your password, to log into your Microsoft account. Microsoft Authenticator app also supports multi-factor authentication for work, school, and non-Microsoft accounts. The app provides a second layer of security after your password. When logging in, you will enter your password, and then you will be asked for an additional way to prove it’s really you. Either approve the notification sent to the Microsoft Authenticator or enter the verification code generated by the app.Similar to Google Authenticator, the Microsoft Authenticator app doesn't do cloud backups. However, unlike Google, it's better supported and offers push notifications. While the latter does require the user to be in the Microsoft ecosystem, it's still a great convenience to have and enough to recommend it over Google Authenticator.
Get it on Smartphone: (Free)
Sometimes your work or school might ask you to install the Microsoft Authenticator when accessing certain files, emails, or apps. You will need to register your device to your organization through the app and add your work or school account. Microsoft Authenticator also supports cert-based authentication by issuing a certificate on your device. This will let your organization know that the sign-in request is coming from a trusted device and help you seamlessly and securely access additional Microsoft apps and services without needing to log into each. Because Microsoft Authenticator supports single sign-on, once you have proven your identity once, you will not need to log in again to other Microsoft apps on your device.
5: Google Authenticator
Google Authenticator generates 2-Step Verification codes on your mobile phone. 2-Step Verification provides stronger security for your Google Account by requiring a second step of verification when you sign in. In addition to your password, you will also need a code generated by the Google Authenticator app on your phone.Honestly, the main reason to choose Google Authenticator is that you are afraid that backing up your data to the cloud isn't safe. Despite the inconvenience, you're worried about your privacy, and therefore, Google Authenticator makes sense. However, for the majority of users, there are better options.
Get it on Smartphone: (Free)
Features:
- Generate verification codes without a data connection
- Google Authenticator works with many providers & accounts
- Support for Android Wear
- Dark theme available
- Automatic setup via QR code
Wrapping up
Let us start by saying everyone should use 2FA. We understand that it's time-consuming, and especially for the websites which don't support apps, having to receive a code via a phone no. is an inconvenience. And 2FA can protect you and your data from unauthorized access, which is well worth the inconvenience. The best choice for 2FA right now is clearly Authy 2-Factor Authentication. It is easy to use, easy to transfer to a new device and offers password protection.These are the top 5 best 2-step authentication apps for your Smartphone devices. If you are using any other app for your online accounts, let us know below the comment section. And don’t forget to share this with your friends on the social network.
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