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

  • Something you know, like your password
  • Something you have, like your phone

Turn on 2-Step Verification

  1. Open your Google Account.
  2. In the navigation panel, select Security.
  3. Under “Signing in to Google,” select 2-Step Verification and then Get started.
  4. Follow the on-screen steps.

Verify it’s you with a second step

After you turn on 2-Step Verification, you’ll need to complete a second step to verify it’s you when you sign in. To help protect your account, Google will request that you complete a specific second step.

Use Google prompts

We recommend you sign in with Google prompts. It's easier to tap a prompt than enter a verification code. Prompts can also help protect against SIM swap and other phone number-based hacks.

Google prompts are push notifications you’ll receive on:

  • Android phones that are signed in to your Google Account 
  • iPhones with the Smart Lock app , the Gmail app , or Google app  signed in to your Google Account

Based on the device and location info in the notification, you can: 

  • Allow the sign in if you requested it by tapping Yes
  • Block the sign-in if you didn’t request it by tapping No

For added security, Google may ask you for your PIN or other confirmation.

Use Google prompts

Important: To use Google prompts, you need an Android phone with updated Google Play services.

We recommend you use Google prompts as your second step. They’re easier to enter than a verification code and can help protect against SIM swap and other phone number-based hacks.

To get Google prompts on your Google Account, you need: 

  • An Android phone that’s signed in to your Google Account 
  • An iPhone with the Smart Lock app , the Gmail app , or Google app  signed in to your Google Account.

Based on the device and location info in the notification, you can: 

  • Tap Yes to allow sign-in.
  • Tap No to block sign-in.

Use Google prompts

We recommend you sign in with Google prompts. They’re easier to enter than a verification code and can help protect against SIM swap and other phone number-based hacks.

Google prompts are push notifications you get on iPhones that are signed in to your Google Account with the  Smart Lock app , Gmail app , or Google app . If you sign in to another compatible phone, you automatically get Google prompts on that device, until you sign out.

Based on the device and location info in the notification, you can: 

  • Tap Yes to allow sign-in. 
  • Tap No to block sign-in.

Use other verification methods

You can set up other verification methods in case you:

  • Want increased protection against phishing
  • Can’t get Google prompts
  • Lose your phone

A physical security key 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. Order your security keys.

You may also be able to use the security key built in to a compatible phone to sign in to new devices.

Tip: Security keys help protect your Google Account from phishing attacks, when a hacker tries to trick you into giving them your password or other personal information. Learn more about phishing attacks.

Important: Never give your verification codes to anyone.

You can set up Google Authenticator or another app that creates one-time verification codes when you don’t have an internet connection or mobile service.

Enter the verification code on the sign-in screen to help verify it’s you.

Important: Never give your verification codes to anyone.

A 6-digit code may be sent to a number you’ve previously provided. Codes can be sent in a text message (SMS) or through a voice call, depending on the setting you chose. To verify it’s you, enter the code on the sign-in screen.

Tip: Although any form of 2-Step Verification adds account security, verification codes sent by texts or calls can be vulnerable to phone number-based hacks.

Important: Never give out your backup codes to anyone.

You can print or download a set of 8-digit backup codes to keep in a safe place. Backup codes are helpful if you lose your phone.

Skip a second step on trusted devices


If you don't want to provide a second verification step each time you sign in on your computer or phone, check the box next to "Don't ask again on this computer.
Important: Only check this box on devices you regularly use and don't share with anyone else.