

Something you have could be a security key such as we are rounding up here, or it might be an authenticator app on your phone. It lives in your head and is ideally known only to you. Something you know is typically a password. That doesn't mean a second password, but at least any two from a list of three possible factors: Multi-factor authentication, sometimes called two-factor authentication or 2FA, seeks to change that by using more than one authentication factor. For another, people tend to reuse passwords, meaning that if one account is compromised, all the other accounts with the same password are also at risk. For one thing, we're bad at remembering them and even worse at picking unique, complex passwords that can stand up to attacks. The authentication method most of us are familiar with is being required to enter a username and password. How to Set Up Two-Factor Authenticationīuying Guide: The Best Security Keys for Multi-Factor Authentication.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.Now you’re set! You can come back to your Google account’s 2FA page to rename or remove your key.Press the button on the key, then click “Allow” once you see the Chrome pop-up asking to read the make and model of your key. The next box lets you register your security key.Assuming you don’t fall into that category, click “Next.”

You’ll also see an option to use only the security key as part of Google’s Advanced Protection Program (which is for users with “ high visibility and sensitive information”). You’ll see a box telling you to make sure the key is nearby but not plugged in.Select “USB or Bluetooth / External security key.” A pop-up box will list your options, which include devices that have built-in security keys and the option to use an external security key.Look for the “Security Key” option and click on “Add Security Key.” Scroll down until you see the “Add more second steps to verify it’s you” heading.
