Google Authenticator 4.2.1

Google LLC – Freeware – Android iOS
out of 658629 votes

Secure Your Accounts with Google Authenticator

David Fischer

03/25/2025

Google Authenticator provides a simple and effective two-factor authentication solution that enhances the security of your online accounts with ease.

Google Authenticator enhances the security of your online accounts by adding an additional layer of verification during the sign-in process. Alongside your password, you will be prompted to enter a code generated by the Google Authenticator app on your smartphone.

The Google Authenticator app can generate verification codes even when you have no network or cellular connection available.

Sync your Authenticator codes with your Google Account and across your devices, ensuring you always have access to them, even if your phone is lost.
Effortlessly set up your Authenticator accounts by scanning a QR code, simplifying the process and ensuring accurate setup of your codes.
Manage multiple accounts using the Authenticator app, eliminating the need to switch between apps when signing in.
Choose between time-based and counter-based code generation, allowing flexibility to suit your specific requirements.
Transfer accounts between devices conveniently using a QR code, simplifying the process of moving your accounts to a new device.

To utilize Google Authenticator with Google, you must enable 2-Step Verification on your Google Account. To begin, please visit http://www.google.com/2step.

Overview

Google Authenticator is a Freeware software in the category System Utilities developed by Google LLC.

The latest version of Google Authenticator is 4.2.1, released on 07/02/2024. It was initially added to our database on 09/07/2023.

Google Authenticator runs on the following operating systems: Android/iOS.

Users of Google Authenticator gave it a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Pros

Provides an extra layer of security to protect accounts with two-factor authentication
Easy to set up and use for adding an extra level of security to various online accounts
Supports a wide range of websites and services that offer two-factor authentication
Does not require an internet connection to generate authentication codes, ensuring access even in offline situations
Available for free on both Android and iOS platforms

Cons

Not able to easily transfer accounts and settings when switching to a new device
Some users may find managing multiple accounts within the app cumbersome
No built-in backup or sync feature for account recovery in case of device loss or damage

FAQ

What is Google Authenticator?

Google Authenticator is a mobile app that enables two-factor authentication (2FA) for securing your online accounts.

How does Google Authenticator work?

It generates time-based one-time passcodes (TOTPs) that you enter along with your username and password for an added layer of security.

Is Google Authenticator free to use?

Yes, Google Authenticator is free to download and use on Android and iOS devices.

Can I use Google Authenticator without an internet connection?

Yes, once set up, Google Authenticator does not require an internet connection to generate codes.

What happens if I lose my phone with Google Authenticator?

If you lose your phone, you'll need backup codes or another method to access your accounts, as the codes cannot be transferred to another device.

How do I set up Google Authenticator?

You need to download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, then follow the instructions provided by each service you want to secure.

Can I use Google Authenticator on multiple devices?

Yes, but you need to manually add each account on every device you want to use with Google Authenticator.

Will Google Authenticator work with all online services?

Google Authenticator works with any service that supports TOTP, including many major platforms like Google, Dropbox, and GitHub.

How does backup and recovery work for Google Authenticator?

Google recommends saving backup codes provided during setup and using the option to transfer your accounts when moving them to a new device.

Is my data secure with Google Authenticator?

Yes, the app does not store any account details on its servers; all codes are generated locally and are not transmitted over the internet.

David Fischer

I am a technology writer for UpdateStar, covering software, security, and privacy as well as research and innovation in information security. I worked as an editor for German computer magazines for more than a decade before joining the UpdateStar team. With over a decade of editorial experience in the tech industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my current role at UpdateStar. At UpdateStar, I focus on the critical areas of software, security, and privacy, ensuring our readers stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.

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