How to use your phone as a two-factor authentication security key

It is possible to use your iPhone or Android smartphone as a physical security key to verify your Google login and make it harder for anyone else to access it (always a good idea). AUTH, Google’s Authenticator, and other third-party apps require you to enter your password and an authentication code generated by the app. A pop-up screen will appear on your phone asking if you want to access your account. Press “Yes” or tap the volume button to gain access. Another security key is also available on your phone. Learn How to use your phone as a two-factor authentication security key.

YOU CAN SIGN IN WITH YOUR PHONE

The computer you’re using should be running Windows 10, iOS, macOS, or Chrome OS. Your phone should also be running Android 7 or later, and Bluetooth should be enabled.

• The chances of you not having a Google account associated with your Android phone are very slim, but if you’re one of those few, you need to add one by going to Settings > Passwords & accounts, scrolling down to and choosing Add account > Google.

• On your computer, launch Google Chrome.

• Click the Use your phone to sign in link at myaccount.google.com/security on Chrome.

• And enter your password. For the first step, you’ll need to select a phone (if you have more than one), verify whether you have TouchID (on an iPhone) or a screen lock (on an Android), and enter a recovery phone number.

After that, we will test your system, and you will have the option to turn it on permanently.

Learn More – How to get more space in your Google storage

CONSIDER YOUR PHONE A SECONDARY KEY

To make sure that you are logging in to your account, you can also use your phone as an additional security measure. For this reason, the correct mobile phone with Bluetooth connectivity is necessary to access the account.

• Click on Two-Step Verification on the account security page to set it up if you haven’t done so yet. It boils down to logging in, entering a phone number, and determining how you want your verification to be conducted.

• Then click Add Security Key from the secondary methods list.

• Choose the same option again.

• A physical USB or NFC key or your phone (or one of your phones) will be available for adding. Click on it.

• Upon signing up, you’ll receive a warning that you need to have Bluetooth enabled and that Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome are the only supported browsers.

It’s that simple! After setting up your phone as a security key, you can log into Gmail, Google Cloud, and other Google services and use your smartphone as a primary or secondary authentication method.

If you’re attempting to log in from your phone, place it near your computer. When the prompt appears on your phone, your computer will notify you. Then verify your account by following the directions.