Google Authenticator: create a backup - here's how it works

Use Google Authenticator to generate codes for two-factor authentication. This double protection increases the security of linked accounts. It becomes problematic if you lose access to the Authenticator. Without the extra code, you will no longer be able to log in.

How to create backup codes for Google Authenticator

If you have enabled two-factor authentication for an account, you will need to enter an extra code in addition to the password. The extra code is continuously regenerated after a short time window. The additional protection ensures that hackers, for example, cannot access the account even with the password. However, the same applies to you: without the generated code, the login will not work. So that you still have access to your account even if you lose your Google Authenticator, you can create backup codes.

1. Call up your Google account.
2. Switch to the "Security" category in the navigation on the left.
3. Click at "Sign in to Google" on "Confirmation in two steps".
4. Enter your password.
5. Scroll down and click at "Backup codes" on "Set up".
6. It then opens a new window in which you will be shown ten extra codes. Now either click "Download" to digitally back up the codes or click "Print".

Note that each of the ten backup codes can only be used once. Keep the codes in a safe place. You can generate new codes at any time, but the old ones will become invalid and can no longer be used to log in.