Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an essential layer of security to online accounts by requiring two forms of verification during login. While it enhances protection against unauthorized access, occasional challenges can arise that prevent users from successfully logging in. Understanding these common obstacles will empower you to troubleshoot effectively and regain secure access to your account. In this article, we’ll explore how to troubleshoot 2FA login issues by providing practical solutions to address them.

If you’re being asked for a verification code and can’t log in, make sure you’re using a valid code. When prompted for a 2FA code, double-check that:

• You’re using the correct authentication method (like your authenticator app or your email).
• The code hasn’t expired — they usually last only 30 seconds.
• Your device’s clock is synced correctly — if it’s off, the codes might not work.

Issues receiving 2FA login code in email

If you’re not receiving the 2FA code by email, there may be an issue with your email account or delivery. To troubleshoot 2FA login issues, check your email settings and spam folder to locate the code. If everything appears correctly set up, wait a few minutes to see if the code arrives.

Another reason you might not receive the 2FA code is that, during setup, you may have chosen to use an authentication app instead of email. An authenticator app is a mobile app that adds an extra layer of security by generating time-sensitive one-time passwords (TOTPs). Use these passwords to complete two-factor authentication (2FA) and help safeguard your accounts against unauthorized access.

Popular authenticator apps include Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, LastPass, and Authy.

No longer have access to authenticator app (for 2FA code)

If you’ve lost your phone or can’t use your authenticator app for any reason (like a device reset or uninstall), you won’t be able to generate a valid code. In this case, you’ll need to use one of the recovery codes you were shown when you first set up 2FA.

• Recovery codes are single-use backup codes — if you saved them somewhere safe, now’s the time to use one!
• Enter the recovery code in place of the usual 2FA code to sign in.

Don’t have your recovery codes?

If you don’t have access to your authenticator app and you’ve lost your recovery codes, your next step is to reach out to the organization owner (or account admin) for help. They can assist with verifying your identity and resetting your 2FA settings so you can regain access.

Seeing message indicating that 2FA is required to sign in

If you are receiving a message saying that you must input an authentication code in order to log in, this means that your organization has enabled two-factor authentication. You should have received an email with instructions on how to set up 2FA for your account.

If you have already set up using 2FA and are still unable to log in, your employer can reset 2FA for you. Please reach out to them asking for a reset.