Google Authenticator

Two-step verification codes in one place

Google Authenticator generates temporary verification codes for accounts that use two-step authentication. It is suited to anyone who wants an additional sign-in check beyond a password, especially when managing several accounts across different services. The app belongs to the Tools category and is developed by Google LLC.

Simple account setup

Accounts can be added by scanning a service’s QR code, which avoids manually typing a setup key. Google Authenticator supports both time-based and counter-based one-time passwords, allowing it to work with a broad range of authentication systems. Once an account is configured, its current code is available from the main list without opening a browser or returning to the service that created it.

Codes without a data connection

The app creates codes on the device, so a mobile or Wi-Fi connection is not required when signing in. That makes it useful during travel or in places with limited coverage. Codes change on a regular cycle, and the interface keeps the account names and current numbers easy to read at a glance.

Moving and protecting your account list

Google Authenticator can sync codes with a Google Account, helping preserve access when a phone is lost or replaced. It also includes QR-based transfer for moving an account collection to another device. These options make recovery and device changes less disruptive, although users should still protect access to their phone and Google Account.

With a rating of 3.85 from more than 640,000 reviews and 100,000,000+ installs, Google Authenticator is a widely used utility for everyday two-step verification. Its package name is com.google.android.apps.authenticator2.