It’s easier to log in to your websites or web services with multi-factor authentication using mobile authenticator apps.
What Is Multi-Factor Authentication?
MFA, as the name implies, is the use of multiple forms of authentication to gain access to an online account or app. The most common method is to use your password as a first step. MFA adds an additional layer of security to your password. Something you know (a password, for example), an object you possess (a key, for example), and an attribute you possess (such as your fingerprint) are all examples of authentication factors (a fingerprint or other biometric trait). A token, smartphone, or smartwatch can be added to your password when you use one of these authenticator apps.
1. 2FA Authenticator
This app, previously known as 2FAS, is a simple but powerful authenticator. There are two methods for adding online accounts to the app: manually and via a QR code scanning. Because it can back up your registered accounts to iCloud or Google Drive (depending on your device) instead of Google Authenticator, this app is better for when you lose or replace your phone. Encrypted backups can only be accessed through the 2FA app.
2. Duo Mobile
As part of Cisco’s portfolio, Duo Mobile is geared toward corporate applications, especially now. In addition to one-time passcodes, the app provides enterprise features like multi-user deployment and provisioning as well as one-tap push authentication.. Duo’s Android app has a nice security feature: You can’t take a screenshot of the app (but you can on iOS). iCloud KeyChain and Google Drive can both be used to back up Duo Mobile on Android.
3. Google Authenticator
There are no additional features in Google’s authenticator app. Google Authenticator, in contrast to Microsoft Authenticator, does not include any additional options for use with Google’s services. Instead of using the Authenticator app, Google wants you to use built-in Android features to set up multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA with a Google account (rather than the Google Authenticator app) is more convenient because it only requires tapping the phone instead of entering a six-digit code. It is possible to import your Google Authenticator account codes from an old phone to a new one if you have the old one on hand. Google Authenticator does not have an Apple Watch app.
4. LastPass Authenticator
This app is separate from the password manager app, but it has some synergy with the password manager. If you already have a LastPass account with MFA enabled, you can easily authorize LastPass by tapping a push notification. Installing LastPass Authenticator is a cinch. The backup of your authenticator accounts in your LastPass vault is easy once the app is linked to your LastPass account, so you don’t have to go through the hassle of moving your data to a new phone.
5. Microsoft Authenticator
With Microsoft Authenticator, you can use a single button to sign in to your Microsoft account and create a secure password. Schools and workplaces that use the app can also register the devices of their students and employees. You should enable account recovery if you plan to make regular use of this app. Once your Microsoft account has been verified, you will be able to sign in to your new phone and recover your data.