How To Use Google Authenticator On A Windows PC

Enhancing Security with Google Authenticator on Windows PC

Google Authenticator is a powerful tool for adding an extra layer of security to your online accounts, but it does not have an official application for Windows PCs. However, there are several effective workarounds to use Google Authenticator on your Windows computer.

Setting Up Google Authenticator on Your Phone

Before you can use Google Authenticator on your Windows PC, you need to set it up on your phone. Here’s how:

1. Download the Google Authenticator App: Go to the Play Store (for Android) or App Store (for iOS) and download the Google Authenticator app.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Open a web browser and navigate to myaccount.google.com. Go to the Security page, then click on "How to sign in to Google" and select "2-Step Verification."
3. Follow the Prompts: Click on "Get Started," enter your password, and proceed. Select your phone, enter your phone number, and choose "Text message" to receive an OTP. Enter the OTP and proceed.
4. Set Up Authenticator: Once two-factor authentication is set up, go to "Add more second steps to verify it’s you" and click on "Authentication Apps." Then, click on "Set up authenticator" and select "Can’t scan it?" to get the secret key.

Using WinAuth on Windows PC

WinAuth is an open-source authenticator application that can use the code generated by Google Authenticator.

1. Download and Install WinAuth: Download and install WinAuth from the official website.
2. Add Google Authenticator: Open WinAuth, click on "Add," and then select "Google."
3. Enter the Secret Key: Enter the secret key you obtained during the setup process on your phone.
4. Verify Authenticator: Click "Verify Authenticator" and then go back to the Google security page to enter the code generated by WinAuth.

Using Authenticator Extension on Chromium Browsers

For users who prefer browser-based solutions, you can use the Authenticator extension on Chromium-based browsers like Chrome and Edge.

1. Install the Authenticator Extension: Go to chrome.google.com and search for the Authenticator extension. Click "Add to Chrome" to install it.
2. Set Up the Extension: Once installed, open the extension and click on the pencil icon. You will be prompted to enter an account name and password to set up your Google Authenticator.
3. Add Verification Code: You can either scan a QR code or enter the secret key manually. If you choose to enter the secret key, click the pencil icon, then the plus sign, and select "Enter Manually." Enter the secret code and a name for the code, then click "Confirm".

Using WinOTP Authenticator

Another option is to use the WinOTP Authenticator app available on the Microsoft Store.

1. Install WinOTP Authenticator: Open the Microsoft Store, search for WinOTP Authenticator, and install it.
2. Add Secret Code: Open the WinOTP Authenticator application, click the plus button to add a secret code. Enter the secret code, website name, and username, then click "Save."
3. Generate Verification Code: Once saved, click on the verification code to automatically copy it to the clipboard.

Tips for Smooth Operation

• Backup and Restore: When using browser extensions or third-party apps, it’s crucial to back up your verification codes. Most apps, like the Authenticator extension, offer export and import features to help you restore your codes if you need to change computers or reinstall the browser.
• Multiple Browser Users: If you use multiple browser profiles, consider using a standalone app like WinAuth or WinOTP Authenticator for easier management.
• Troubleshooting: If an app like WinOTP Authenticator does not work properly (e.g., only showing the splash screen), it might be outdated. In such cases, using the Authenticator extension on Chrome can be a reliable alternative.

By following these steps, you can effectively use Google Authenticator on your Windows PC, enhancing your online security with two-factor authentication.