Backing up Google Authenticator is an essential step to ensure you don’t lose access to your accounts in case you lose your device or it gets stolen. By following a few simple steps, you can easily transfer your codes to a new device and keep your accounts secured.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Backup Google Authenticator
Before we delve into the details, let’s understand why backing up Google Authenticator is crucial. Google Authenticator provides a second layer of security to your accounts by generating time-sensitive codes. If you lose access to these codes, you could be locked out of your accounts. This step-by-step guide will help you create a backup so that you’re never in that situation.
Step 1: Open Google Authenticator
Open the Google Authenticator app on your phone.
When you open the app, you’ll see all the accounts you have set up with Google Authenticator. Each account has a unique code that changes every 30 seconds.
Step 2: Navigate to Settings
Go to the settings menu in the Google Authenticator app.
In the settings menu, you can adjust various aspects of the app, such as time correction for codes and account settings.
Step 3: Select "Transfer Accounts"
Select the "Transfer accounts" option in the settings menu.
This option allows you to export your accounts to another device or create a backup.
Step 4: Choose "Export Accounts"
Select "Export accounts" to create a QR code.
You’ll be prompted to select which accounts you want to export. Choose the ones you wish to backup.
Step 5: Scan the QR Code with New Device
Use the new device to scan the QR code displayed on the old device.
After scanning the QR code, the accounts will be added to Google Authenticator on the new device, effectively creating a backup.
After completing these steps, your Google Authenticator codes will be successfully backed up onto your new device. You can now use Google Authenticator on the new device just as you did on the old one, without any interruption to your account security.
Tips: How to Backup Google Authenticator
- Always backup Google Authenticator before changing devices.
- Keep the backup device secure, as anyone with access to it can generate your login codes.
- If you lose your device, immediately remove Google Authenticator access from your accounts and set it up again with a new device.
- Write down the backup codes provided by services when you set up two-factor authentication.
- Periodically check that your backup is up-to-date and still accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I backup Google Authenticator to the cloud?
No, Google Authenticator does not support cloud backups due to security reasons. The codes are designed to be stored only on your devices.
What if I lose both my devices?
If you lose both devices, you will have to reset Google Authenticator on each account manually, which can be a time-consuming process. It’s best to have multiple backup options just in case.
Can I use Google Authenticator on multiple devices?
Yes, you can set up Google Authenticator on multiple devices by scanning the same QR code with each device. However, you will need to ensure that the time on each device is synchronized.
How often should I backup Google Authenticator?
It’s a good idea to backup Google Authenticator whenever you add a new account to it or once every few months to ensure the backup is current.
What happens if I don’t backup Google Authenticator?
If you don’t backup Google Authenticator and lose access to your device, you could be permanently locked out of your accounts that use two-factor authentication.
Summary
- Open Google Authenticator.
- Navigate to Settings.
- Select "Transfer accounts".
- Choose "Export accounts".
- Scan the QR Code with the new device.
Conclusion
Keeping a backup of your Google Authenticator codes is like having an insurance policy for your digital life. It might seem like a chore, but it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you won’t be locked out of your accounts. Remember, in the digital age, your online security is only as strong as your weakest link. Losing access to your accounts can be a nightmare, especially if they contain sensitive personal or financial information. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safeguard your accounts against loss or theft of your device. So, take the time today to backup Google Authenticator and secure your digital world.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.