How Authenticator Apps Work and Why You May Need One

Use an authenticator app to secure your most sensitive information, avoid scams, and guard against unauthorized users accessing your data. Authenticator apps work to strengthen passwords and protect against identity theft. You can use these apps on many devices, like your iPhone or Android, to protect email, banking, and other account login information. Many of the best password managers support authenticator app access, too. 

An authenticator app gives you an extra layer of security for your accounts. Rather than relying on a single password, you’ll have another authentication factor before you can access your accounts. With over 1 million reports of identity theft reported in 2023, you have every reason to look for better ways to stay secure online.[1]

Keep reading to learn about authenticator apps and how they work to decide if using one could benefit you.

What is an authenticator app?

An authenticator app is an application that usually gets installed on a smartphone or mobile device. The app generates a six- to eight-digit security key in a specific time window, usually 30 seconds. An algorithm usually generates these authenticator codes. For example, the Google Authenticator app uses the Time-Based One-Time Password Algorithm, or TOTP, to generate its codes. You can use the active code to log in to your email or other online accounts. Many companies require time-based authenticator apps for remote access to prevent hackers from stealing data.

Authenticator apps, like Google Authenticator, may also be referred to as two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA). That means it takes two different security measures to access an account.

For instance, when you attempt to log in, you may need a password and the verification code that the authenticator app generates. The app will text the code to your mobile phone number. You’ll only have a limited amount of time to enter the code for access, or you won’t be able to log in to the account.

That keeps accounts more secure because the code changes so often it would be hard for a hacker to guess. Two-step verification helps keep you safer from identity theft and hackers getting into your online accounts.

How do I set up an authenticator app?

The great thing about an authenticator app is how easy it is to set up and connect. You can find one that works for you on Google Play or the Apple App Store. A few steps are all it takes to give you that extra layer of security.

1. Once you download the app to your device, you can look at your online accounts to see which ones support two-factor authentication and select the option to connect them to the app. Different accounts may have different methods to connect to the authenticator app.
2. After choosing to connect to the app, you’ll add the secure account to your authenticator app. 
3. The account website will send you a key or QR code to finish setting things up. 

When should I use an authenticator app?

The primary reason for using an authenticator app is to keep your accounts secure. With so much malware created, phishing scams perpetrated, and hackers getting even smarter, using strong passwords may not be enough. When you want a simple but functional way to keep your data safe, an authenticator app could be the way to go.

If you have any online accounts that you want to keep more secure, you may want to consider using an authenticator app. Many people access their online banking apps and work email from their smartphones. Without an authenticator app, these accounts are easier for strangers to hack and access, and you could become a victim of identity theft.

When you use your authenticator app, you have about 30 seconds to key in a code, or you can’t log into the account. Knowing there’s more than one layer of security for your most sensitive and private information offers you peace of mind.

How do I pick an authenticator app?

When looking for the right authenticator app, look for the security features you need and a few extras you may want. It’s a good idea to look for an app created by a reliable company.

If you have a smartwatch, you may want to choose an app that connects to the watch. That gives you more convenience in case you don’t have your phone.

You also want to get the authenticator app that securely backs up your account in case you lose your device. Different apps are compatible with various platforms, so factor that into your decision.

Some apps allow you to lock the software. That way, even if someone else uses your phone, they can’t access your accounts or authenticator codes. Similarly, some authenticator apps make sure all your data is encrypted and decrypted on your device, not through a third-party server. That puts an interference layer between you and a possible hacker.

Key features of a good authenticator app

• Is easy to use
• Is compatible across devices (including smart watches)
• Handles code generation for multiple accounts
• Offers secure backups
• Includes browser extensions
• Provides helpful tutorials
• Doesn't collect your data 

What’s the best authenticator app?

There are many authenticator apps for you to choose from, so when it comes to the best, it depends on the options you want most. Many password managers, like NordPass, support the use of at least one of these authenticator apps. We’ve reviewed some of the most popular ones that have the crucial features you need with an authenticator app.

Microsoft Authenticator

The Microsoft Authenticator app provides a secure, easy login process for all your online accounts. It works on iOS and Android devices and stays current with bug fixes and performance improvements.

Google Authenticator

Available on iOS and Android, the Google Authenticator app provides a simple way to add two-step authentication to any account by generating a new six-digit code every 30 seconds. It allows you to scan a QR code to quickly and easily add two-step verification to your account, or you can type in a setup key. Also, you don't need a Google account to use it.

2FAS

2FAS is an authenticator that lets you add online accounts with a QR code or manually add them. You get the advantage of cloud backups for your Android or Apple device. The backup is also encrypted, and you can only access it from the 2FAS app.

LastPass Authenticator

LastPass offers an authenticator separate from the password manager available from the same company. You can use it synergistically with the password manager for even more security.

When you set up the authenticator app, you can create a backup of your accounts in your password vault. If you get a new phone, you can easily transfer your data from the vault.

Duo Mobile

Duo Mobile works on any smartphone, and you can configure more than one device to use it. You will have to configure each device separately, though, instead of synching to all of them at once. You also approve or deny access, so if a request comes that you didn't make, you can deny it.

Duo Mobile can be used with an Apple Watch, but not Android smartwatches. You can, however, approve or deny requests using the notification feature on your Android watch.

Featured password management solutions

If you want to know more about protecting your online accounts, read our NordPass review to learn about its multi-factor authentication options, strong encryption and security, and more.

Authenticator app FAQs

Bottom line

An authenticator app is a great way to get that extra layer of security for all your online accounts. Rather than relying on passwords alone, you get an app that generates one-time passwords that expire within approximately 30 seconds. If an unauthorized person gets the code later, it won’t work.

Using authenticator apps makes it almost impossible for hackers to access your accounts. Installing these apps gives you more safety online. In our world of technological advancement, you need to be as stealthy as the scammers who want to breach your data and steal your identity.