What is 2-Factor Login?
Most of your online accounts probably just have a username and password to get you logged in. This is great, however, if your password is compromised then so is all of your data. 2-Factor login adds another layer to this process. You will login using your username and password but you will also need your phone to login.
How is my phone used for this?
When you set up 2-Factor enforcement you will be required to register it with your cell phone number. When you login, you will be sent a text message with a 6 digit code. You will enter this code and then you will be granted access. The easier option is to use the "Google Prompt". This will send a notification through your phone through the "Google" app. You will simply unlock your phone and verify that you are trying to login to a device, no need to have to type in any code.
How do I get started?
When you click the link below you will be taken to the page to setup your phone to enable access to your account.
When you go to this your first time it will walk you though the steps, send your cell phone codes, etc. After you initially set it up this link will take you straight to the 2-Factor management console. You will then find the "Google Prompt" section. It will walk you through how to set that up with your phone.
What if I try and login to something and I keep getting an "Incorrect Password" message?
Some applications and systems don't play well with Google's 2-Factor login system. More than likely you will only encounter this with one application and that is the Beta contact card on your phone. When you get to Step 8 of the mobile phone setup guide you are prompted to enter your password twice. This will NOT be your password. You will create what is call an "app password". An app password is a password that is valid for one login. You don't have to remember it since you won't be able to use it again anyways.
To get app passwords follow the following link:
You will simply select what you want the password for and it will generate it for you. Leave the screen with the password open until you type it into your phone.