What is an Authenticator App?

[SteveVoima]

I keep hearing about an Authenticator App for accounts and security. Can someone explain what it is and how it works?

 

[sarahmartin]

An‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ authenticator app is a security device that creates time-based one-time codes that you use during login to confirm that you are the one accessing the account. This is an additional security measure that works together with your password to keep your accounts safe from unauthorized ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌access.

 

[asher]

An authenticator app is a security app that generates time-based one-time codes you use to verify your identity during login. It adds an extra layer of protection so only you can access your accounts.

 

[sarahmartin]

An‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ authenticator app is a mobile app that creates time-based one-time passwords (OTPs) which are used for two-factor authentication (2FA). This means that, in addition to your regular password, you also need to enter a code from the app when accessing your account, thus providing an extra layer of ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌security.

 

[Gabriel]

An authenticator app is a security tool that generates temporary codes for logging into accounts. Instead of just a password, you enter the code from the app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. It makes your logins way more secure and stops most password-only hacks.

 

[Elias]

It’s an app that creates time-based one-time codes (TOTP) you use for two-factor authentication. When you sign into a service, you type the code from the app along with your password. It’s safer than SMS codes because it’s tied to the app on your phone.

 

[Winter]

Authenticator apps (like Authy or Duo) generate short codes you enter during login as a second step after your password. They’re offline, don’t need a network, and make unauthorized logins much harder. Basically extra protection for your accounts.

 

[Rolf]

It’s a mobile app that gives you a rotating six-digit code to confirm it’s really you signing in. Instead of receiving a text, you open the authenticator app, get the code, and enter it. This adds a stronger layer of security.

 

[sebastianwells]

An authenticator app produces dynamic security codes used in two-factor authentication. When you enable it on an online account, the app and service sync to generate codes that change every 30 seconds. Entering the current code proves you have the device.

 

[laravinson]

Basically, an authenticator app is part of two-step login security. You link it to your account and it generates a time-sensitive code each login. You use that code with your password, making it much harder for hackers to break in.