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How to Set Up Multi-factor Authentication for G-Suite
How to Set Up Multi-factor Authentication for G-Suite

This article will walk you through how to set up Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) for G-Suite.

Updated over a year ago

Introduction

Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) will increase the security of both your email account and your organization by adding an extra layer of security to your account in the event that your password is stolen. Please note, Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) may also be referred to as 2-Factor Authentication (2FA).

To begin this process, you will need to have your mobile device for text message (SMS) authentication. If you do not want to utilize SMS authentication, download the Google Authenticator application (available for iPhone and Android devices).

How to Activate MFA on Your G-Suite Account

  1. Open your Google Account.

  2. In the Navigation pane on the left of your screen, select Security.

  3. In the “Signing in to Google” section, select 2-Step Verification > Get Started.

  4. Google will ask you to verify your login credentials. Enter them, then click Next.

  5. Google will prompt you to select one method for secondary authentication: Text Message (SMS) or Google Authenticator (Mobile App).

    If needed, explore alternative options to these by clicking “Show More Options”.

  6. Upon successful verification, you will be prompted to confirm turning on MFA, select Turn On.

  7. From there, you will have the option to set up additional authentication methods, if needed.

Instructions for Outlook and Mac.Mail Users

Users who do not use their Web Browser for their email will need to generate a special password for their email application. Follow the steps below to complete the set-up.

  1. Open your Google Account.

  2. In the Navigation pane on the left of your screen, select Security.

  3. Look for the “Signing in to Google” section, select App Passwords.

  4. On the App Passwords screen choose from the Select App and Select Device dropdown menus. Then, click Generate.

  5. Google will provide you with a unique password for your device, with this password, open the email application (Outlook or Mac.Mail) that you are setting up MFA for.

  6. Once signed in, navigate to your Privacy Settings and update your password to match the code generated by Google.

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