Two-Factor Authentication—also called 2FA—adds an extra step when you log in to an account.
It’s like adding a second lock to your front door.
Instead of just entering your password, you’ll also need a second piece of information that only you should have access to, like:
A code sent to your phone
A code generated by an authenticator app
A fingerprint or face scan
Even if someone guesses or steals your password, they still can’t log in without the second factor.
2FA helps protect against:
Hackers
Identity theft
Email or bank account takeovers
Scams caused by weak or reused passwords
💡 Tip: Use 2FA on email, financial accounts, and anything important.
Here’s what a typical login looks like with 2FA:
Enter your username and password as usual
You’re prompted to enter a second code
That code comes to you by:
A text message (SMS)
An authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy)
A security key or device
Once you enter the code, you’re logged in!
| Type | Description | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Text Message (SMS) | Code sent to your phone number | Read the code, type it in |
| Authenticator App | App on your phone generates a code | Open app, copy code, paste it |
| Email Verification | Code sent to your email | Open email, copy code |
| Security Key | Physical device like a USB key | Plug it in when logging in |
Most websites that support 2FA will let you enable it in your account settings. Look for:
Security or Login & Security
A section called Two-Factor Authentication or Multi-Factor Authentication
They will walk you through the steps to:
Choose a method (text, app, etc.)
Confirm your identity
Save a backup option
Don’t worry if it seems confusing at first—just take it one step at a time.
Keep your phone nearby when logging in.
Write down your backup codes and store them in a safe place (not on your computer).
Ask a trusted family member to walk through setup with you if needed.