How to Backup Google Authenticator from One Android Phone to Another
As we've mentioned before, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a must-have for all Google users. If you've not used 2FA, be aware that you're putting your Google account is at risk of being breached by hackers. In case you haven't activated 2FA yet, you should drop what you're doing right now and go straight to your Google account to turn on this must-have online security tool. Sure, it adds another step to gaining access to your private accounts, but that extra step could be the difference maker between getting hacked and having all of your private and business info leaked or staying safe.
If you did toggle the Two-Factor Authentication feature then you may already be well acquainted with Google Authenticator. The authenticator program was designed to create security keys that are basically the second step of the verification procedure for any Google app or service you use. You can install Google Authenticator on your smartphone, and from that point, your phone will create the needed codes for 2FA.
Sounds great, right? But what do you do if you accidentally misplace your smartphone or get a new one altogether? You think you can just install the Google Authenticator app on the new phone and everything will work as before but you're wrong. There are a few steps you have to take to restore Google Authenticator's functionality. Otherwise, you will not be able to log into your Google profile.
If you're having trouble with moving Google Authenticator from one phone to another I'm here to help you out.
How to move Google Authenticator from my old Android phone to a new one?
Here's how to move your Google Authenticator app from your old phone to your new one:
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- First, you need to install the Google Authenticator app on your new smartphone. To do so you only have to go to the Google Play Store and download it from there as you would download any other app.
- Afterward, you need to go to the Two-Step Authentication online page and press on the button that says "Move to a different phone". Since you're using an android phone select Android from the list of options and press "Continue". You'll see a barcode appear.
- The next step is to launch the Google Authenticator app from your new phone and select the option labeled "Begin setup". Another window will appear. In this window, you must select the option that reads "Scan a barcode".
Note: You may be prompted to install a barcode scanner if you do not have one. - Once you have your barcode scanner installed you must scan the barcode shown on the Two-Factor Authentication page with the new phone.
- The final step is to type the six-digit code displayed by the Google Authenticator app. Note: It may be automatically displayed or you may have to go back to the main window manually to view it. Enter the code into the window from the 2FA website, and press "Verify".
If you did everything correctly, you should be informed that the Google Authenticator has successfully been transferred to your new phone. You may now use your new smartphone more securely thanks to Google Authenticator and Two-Step Verification.
