Looking for the best Google Authenticator alternatives for 2FA? Here’s an article on Naijaknowhow where you’ll discover authenticator apps that you can use to add an extra layer of security to your accounts. Whether you’re using an Android, iOS, or iPad device, these apps work perfectly. When it comes to downloading them, they’re available on the Google Play Store, Apple Store and other alternative app stores.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security measure applied to social media accounts, smartphones, instant messaging apps, websites, digital banking apps, etc. One of the popular apps known for authenticating online accounts is the Google Authenticator app. It works well and also provides one of the most robust protection measures. While Google Authenticator does work for 2FA services, there are other options that can be considered.
Moreover, a lot of users have had issues with Google Authenticator of late. Most users complained about not being able to access their 2FA accounts after losing their devices. Well, the options below have proven to be a better solution. If you want to protect your social media apps like Facebook, Instagram, X, Snapchat, etc., you can use the 2FA features provided by these apps. They also work for the likes of LinkedIn, Reddit, Clubhouse, Houseparty and so on.
List of Google Authenticator Alternatives
It is crucial to add an extra layer of security to your online accounts, and you can only do that with authenticator apps. If you don’t want to use Google Authenticator, you can consider the other 2FA apps below. There’s also a catch to downloading them on Android, iPhone and iPad. They’re also available on other app stores like AppValley, Panda Helper, TutuApp, APKPure, Aptoide, Acmarket and TweakBox. With that being said, let’s explore the best apps like Google Authenticator below.
1. Microsoft Authenticator
Key Features:
- One-tap sign-in via push notifications
- Cloud backup for easy recovery
- Supports TOTP-based authentication
- Works with Microsoft accounts and third-party services
When considering an alternative to Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator is one of the best options available. With Microsoft Authenticator, you’ll enjoy an easier way to keep your online accounts safe from hackers. Rather than finding yourself in moments where you want to recover your hacked Facebook. You should install this app to avoid such scenarios, it works well and is also very easy to use. There’s a lot you can protect with the 2FA services from Microsoft Authenticator.
One of the reasons why you’ll love Microsoft Authenticator is due to its easy setup modes. This app supports a variety of authentication methods and ensures that your accounts remain safe. Microsoft Authenticator provides push notifications, TOTP support, and even phone sign-ins. Additionally, the app offers biometric authentication options for added convenience, making it a well-rounded choice for enhancing your online security.
What We Like:
- Seamless integration with Microsoft services
- Easy-to-use interface
- Supports biometric authentication
What We Don’t Like:
- Lacks advanced customization features
- Requires a Microsoft account for full functionality
Download Microsoft Authenticator:
2. Okta Verify
Key Features:
- Lightweight and fast 2FA app
- Push notifications for supported services
- Works with multiple online accounts
- Offline TOTP code generation
If you’re looking for a reliable authenticator app to use on your smartphone, Okta Verify is a recommended option. One of the reasons why you’ll like it is due to its lightweight nature. Okta Verify is one of the best 2FA apps that works well for keeping online accounts safe. Besides, this app works efficiently with online apps and email apps. Whether you’re using Android or iPhone, you can download Okta Verify on your device for free.
What makes Okta Verify quite unique is its simplicity and how quickly it generates 2FA codes. You can also use it for other online accounts that support 2FA services. If you lose your device and you want to gain access to Okta Verify, it’s quite simple. Everything about this app is unique and that’s why it is a recommended choice. When looking for one of the best Google Authenticators to download, you should go for this app.
What We Like:
- Simple and straightforward setup
- Works well with enterprise accounts
- Doesn’t take up much storage
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited support for personal accounts
- No cloud backup option
Download Okta Verify:
3. LastPass Authenticator
Key Features:
- One-tap push authentication
- Supports TOTP codes for multiple accounts
- Cloud backup for easy recovery
- Works with LastPass password manager
LastPass Authenticator is one of the best authenticator apps for smartphone users. With LastPass Authenticator, you can keep almost everything safe without any worries. This 2FA app works with all online accounts including cloud storage apps. Even if you’re using Windows or macOS, you can use LastPass to keep some assets safe. This takes away the need for file encryption software or any form of extra security measures.
When it comes to the available features, LastPass Authenticator comes with a lot of features. One of the cool features is the rate at which it generates 6-digit codes. It generates codes every 30 seconds, it also features a push notification option. Furthermore, the app supports SMS codes, users can also add multiple accounts without any issues. This is one of the perfect alternatives to Google Authenticator that you’ll enjoy using on your device.
What We Like:
- Secure and reliable
- Easy recovery with cloud backup
- Simple, user-friendly design
What We Don’t Like:
- Some features require a LastPass Premium subscription
- Occasional sync issues with cloud backup
Download LastPass Authenticator:
4. Twilio Authy Authenticator
Key Features:
- Cloud backup and multi-device sync
- Works offline to generate codes
- Supports unlimited accounts
- Desktop version available
Simplicity is one reason why Twilio Authy Authenticator has been a popular choice on the internet. Aside from being one of the best alternatives, Twilio Authy Authenticator is also an alternative to other 2FA apps. Besides, Twilio is completely free, unlike the likes of LastPass Authenticator. In other words, Twilio is a free LastPass alternative you can use to keep your online accounts safe. The app comes with a simple interface and it makes it easy to generate codes.
Twilio Authy Authenticator works offline, which means you don’t have to depend on an internet connection for it to work. In addition, Twilio Authy Authenticator offers a cloud backup that’ll let you access your 2FAs even if you lose your device. If you have over 100 online accounts, you can keep them safe using Twilio. The app can be downloaded for free, and there’s no limit to how many accounts you can protect with it.
What We Like:
- Free and feature-rich
- Allows multi-device access
- Easy recovery after device loss
What We Don’t Like:
- Requires phone number for setup
- Some users may have privacy concerns
Download Twilio Authy Authenticator:
5. 2FA Authenticator (2FAS)
Key Features:
- Open-source and free to use
- Works offline for secure code generation
- Supports passcode and biometric authentication
- Syncs across multiple devices
2FA Authenticator (2FAS) is a great alternative you can also use for keeping online accounts safe. One of the reasons why you’ll love this app is that it comes free, and it is an open-source app. Whether you want to keep your private accounts safe without using app lockers or any folder locker, it got you covered. Everything you’ll need from an authenticator app is available on the 2FA Authenticator (2FAS) app.
The authentication services provided by this app are top-notch, and that’s why it is recommended. 2FAS comes with a friendly interface, generates codes quickly, and offers push notifications. If your smartphone is offline and you need 2FA codes, this app works well. You can add app protection with passcodes or biometrics without any issues. Lastly, 2FAS syncs across multiple devices, which ensures you can always access your codes anytime.
What We Like:
- No ads or hidden fees
- Strong security and privacy features
- Fast and responsive
What We Don’t Like:
- Lacks push notifications
- No cloud backup
Download 2FA Authenticator (2FAS):
6. TOTP Authenticator
Key Features:
- Cloud backup option (paid feature)
- Simple and clean user interface
- Works offline for TOTP code generation
- Supports biometric authentication
Similar to other apps on the list, TOTP Authenticator also offers top-notch authenticator services that make sense. It offers a cloud 2FA service that’ll let you keep your online accounts safe without worries. There’s just one issue with using this app: the cloud sync is a paid feature. This means you might lose your 2FA services if you misplaced your smartphone. Aside from that, TOTP Authenticator does an excellent job of protecting online accounts.
TOTP Authenticator is a great alternative to Google Authenticator; it also allows users to protect cloud storage services. If you have the likes of Dropbox, Google Drive, MediaFire and Zippyshare alternatives, you can keep them safe. Furthermore, TOTP offers a clean and user-friendly interface for managing your 2FA tokens. If you seek a simple and efficient 2FA app without added features and complications, TOTP Authenticator is an excellent choice.
What We Like:
- Easy to set up and use
- No internet required for authentication
- Works with cloud storage services
What We Don’t Like:
- Cloud backup requires a paid subscription
- No push notifications
Download TOTP Authenticator:
7. Step Two
Key Features:
- iCloud sync for easy access on all Apple devices
- Safari extension for auto-filling 2FA codes
- Works across iPhone, iPad, and Mac
- Clean and minimal UI
For Apple users, Step Two is an excellent choice you can download. Known for its modern two-step verification methods, it is one of the best for you. What makes it cool is that it offers security across the app ecosystem. Step Two comes with a browser extension you can use on Safari Browser. Anytime you’re surfing different websites that require logins and passwords, Step Two handles all.
Also, Step Two works seamlessly with iCloud; your 2FA codes are automatically backed up and made available everywhere. Whether you’re protecting your email apps, online shopping apps, grocery shopping apps and a lot more, Step Two is a good 2FA app to use. Furthermore, the app is free; you can download it, but it does feature some paid features as well.
What We Like:
- Best 2FA app for Apple users
- Automatic cloud backup
- Free to use with some premium features
What We Don’t Like:
- No Android version
- Some features require a paid upgrade
Download Step Two:
Conclusion
Securing your online accounts with 2FA is important. While Google Authenticator works well, alternatives like Microsoft Authenticator, Twilio Authy, and LastPass Authenticator offer extra features like cloud backup and multi-device support. Choosing the right authenticator depends on your needs; whether it’s ease of use, cloud recovery, or privacy-focused features.
