How To Setup TOTP Authenticator for 2-Factor Authentication (Complete Guide)

A simple guide for better security.

Published in

BinaryBoot Blog

4 min readMay 30, 2019

Each day, more and more cases of online frauds and hacks come to light. Your online security is under threat, more than ever before. You need to arm yourself to safeguard your accounts from hackers, thieves and other prying eyes.

But how to keep your accounts safe? According to security experts, the 2 best and easiest ways to secure your accounts are to use strong, unique passwords and to enable 2-factor authentication.

In 2-factor authentication, along with your password, you also need to enter a security code to access your account. This code can be generated via an app on your phone or delivered to you via SMS.

Enabling 2-factor authentication for most supporting services is a simple process. Importantly, it reduces your risk percentage by up to 80%.

TOTP Authenticator is one of the most customizable and secure authenticator app available on the market. The app provides a modern design, multi-device support and app security. The app works completely offline and provides customizable widgets and icons.

Here is how you can secure your any account supporting 2FA:

Install TOTP Authenticator

Download the TOTP Authenticator app from the Apple App Store or Play Store.

Any service supported by Google Authenticator, Duo Mobile or Authy can be used with TOTP Authenticator. TOTP Authenticator provides a modern user interface, smart widgets and an offline backup feature compared to other authentication apps.

Find and Enable 2-Factor Authentication

2. Log in to your account and go to the Settings page.

3. Browse through the Settings page to find the option to enable 2-factor authentication. This is generally found under the ‘Security’ or ‘Password’ section.

4. At this stage, services usually display a notice or information regarding 2-factor authentication. Some services also provide a list of backup codes, save and store them somewhere safe. Go through the info and click on Next or Continue button. (If you don’t see any such information page, please skip this point.)

5. Most services provide you with the option to set up either SMS based or ‘Authentication app’ based 2-step verification. Choose the Authenticator app option as it is much safer and reliable. Click on Next.

Scan the Code

7. You’ll see a big QR code on the screen. This contains the configuration data for setup up 2FA. It’s time to switch to the phone now. Download the TOTP Authenticator if you haven’t already.

8. Open the TOTP Authenticator app and scan the QR code visible on the screen. Alternatively, you can enter the code and account details manually (if displayed).

9. Once the above step is done, the account will be added to the list on the main screen. Each code is valid for 30 seconds, after which a new code is generated.