Do I need a smartphone to use two-factor authentication?

Absolutely not. While using a smartphone app (such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator) is the most popular method, it is not mandatory at all.

The famous 6-digit codes that change every 30 seconds are not linked to your phone number or your SIM card. They are simply the result of a mathematical formula. Any program capable of performing that calculation can generate the codes.

You can easily manage your 2FA directly from your computer using various solutions:

• Browser Extensions: There are free, secure, and open-source extensions that live directly inside your web browser. When a website asks for the code, simply click the QR code icon in the top right corner, click the code to copy it, and paste it into the website. Zero distractions, and you never even have to pick up your phone.
• Password Managers: If you use advanced software to securely store your passwords (such as Bitwarden, 1Password, or KeePass), many of them have built-in 2FA functionality. When you log in, the program enters your password and, immediately after, it automatically types the 6-digit code for you.