Turn on 2-Step Verification

With 2-Step Verification (also known as two-factor authentication), you add an extra layer of security to your account. After you set it up, you’ll sign in to your account in two steps using:

• Something you know (your password)
• Something you have (like your phone or a security key)

Step 1: Set up 2-Step Verification

1. Go to your Google Account.
2. On the left navigation panel, click Security.
3. On the Signing in to Google panel, click 2-Step Verification.
4. Click Get started.
5. Follow the steps on the screen.

Choose a second verification step

When you set up 2-Step Verification, you can choose your second verification step. To keep your account more secure, we recommend selecting Choose another option and setting up phone prompts or a security key.

Phone prompt

When we need to make sure it’s you signing in, we’ll send a prompt to your phone. Then, you can simply tap the prompt to help prove it’s you or let us know if it isn’t to help protect your account.

Phone prompts help improve the security of your account and are faster than entering a code.

Text message (SMS) or call

When we need to make sure it’s you signing in, we’ll send a 6-digit code to your phone. You can choose to get your code in a text message (SMS) or through a voice call. Then, you just enter the code on the screen where you’re signing in to help prove it’s you.

Note: Phone prompts help improve the security of your account and are faster than entering a code.

Security key

A security key dongle is a small device that you can buy to help prove it’s you signing in. When we need to make sure it’s you, you can simply connect the key to your phone, tablet, or computer.

You can also use the security key built in to a compatible phone to sign in on your computer.

Tip: Security keys are one of the most secure second steps for signing in to your Google Account.

Step 2: Set up backups

Backups help you get back into your account if you forget your password, lose your phone, or can’t sign in for another reason. With backups, you’re much less likely to get locked out of your account.

1. Go to your Google Account.
2. On the left navigation panel, click Security.
3. On the Signing in to Google panel, click 2-Step Verification.
4. Click Get Started.
5. Click Choose another option.
   1. Add an alternative second step like:
      • Backup codes
      • Backup phone
      • Security Key

Step 3: Add recovery info

If you forget your password or someone else is using your account, updated recovery info helps you get your account back.

Add a recovery email address

1. Go to your Google Account.
2. On the left navigation panel, click Personal info.
3. On the Contact info panel, click Email.
4. Click Add Recovery Email.

Add a recovery phone number

1. Go to your Google Account.
2. On the left navigation panel, click Personal info.
3. On the Contact info panel, click Phone.
4. Click Add Recovery Phone.