When it comes to two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, you have Google Authenticator or third-party software that generates Google 2FA codes for apps or online accounts. In order to provide two-factor authentication, these apps are able to accept the secret authentication code provided by Google (2FA). This method is effective for websites or mobile applications that make use of Google Authenticator. Rather than relying on Google’s secret authentication code to generate 2FA codes, alternative authenticator apps can manage authentication codes by making use of an app’s 2FA setup code directly.

In a nutshell, Google Authenticator works like this: it gets a scanned code from the app that is setting up two-factor authentication, and then it generates a two-factor authentication code that can be used to access the app or online account. However, given that it is only compatible with iOS and Android smartphones, it is not possible for it to work directly on desktop computers. Therefore, you either install a desktop authenticator app that accepts 2FA setup codes from other applications and online accounts, or you allow a third-party app to handle Google authentication using Google’s secret authenticator code. Either way, you need to ensure that the desktop authenticator app accepts 2FA setup codes. In this article, we will look at “How to use Google authentication on a desktop”

How to use Google authentication on desktop

WinAuth:

WinAuth is a Windows application that can be used as a second factor in a two-factor authentication system. Although the app has not received any updates since 2017, you are welcome to give it a shot. The Microsoft.NET framework is required in order for WinAuth to function properly. Here is how to install and configure WinAuth on your computer.

Step 1: After you have downloaded WinAuth, you will need to unzip the file before beginning to use the application.

Step 2: Then, select “Add” from the menu that appears in the bottom-left corner of the application window.

Step 3: When prompted, select “Google” to utilize Google Authenticator.

Step 4: A window for Google Authenticator will open up. In order to acquire the TOTP, please enter your Google shared key (time-based one-time password).

Step 5: Navigate to your Google Account and click on the “Settings” tab once you’re there.

Step 6: Activate the option that says “Two-step authentication.”

Step 7: To switch to the app, click the button that says “Switch.”

Step 8: Next, select your device.

Step 9: In order to proceed, click the option “Continue.”

Step 10: There will be a barcode in front of you. Sadly, WinAuth does not support these at this time. Instead, you should click the link that says “Can’t scan the barcode.”

Step 11: You just need to type in the “secret key” into Google. The key should be highlighted and copied.

Step 12: Return to the WinAuth app and paste the key in the first section when you get there.

Step 13: In section 2, select “Verify Authenticator” from the drop-down menu. A one-time password gets produced.

Step 14: If you have multiple Google Authenticator accounts, you need to make sure that you remember to give this authenticator a name.

Step 15: After you have copied the one-time password, navigate to your Google Account. 

Step 16: Locate the page labeled “Security Settings.” Copy and paste the password into the box.

Step 17: To verify and save your changes, click the button.

Step 18: When Google presents the confirmation window, you will need to click the “OK” button.

Authy:

Try Authy (Windows | macOS | Linux | Android | iOS) if you wish to synchronize the codes on your mobile device and desktop computer. It is possible to use it independently on your personal computer, however, the enrollment process requires you to provide information about your phone. If you have Authy installed on both your computer and your phone, you will have a much easier time synchronizing the two.

Step 1: Click the + sign that is located in the upper right-hand corner of the Authy program on your own computer.

Step 2: Copy the secret key, then hit the “Add Account” button after you’ve pasted it in the box.

Step 3: It’s up to you to give the account a unique moniker and tint. After you’ve finished configuring it, you’ll have a Google code that actually works.