What apps can I use for two-factor authentication?

To activate two-factor authentication (2FA), you need to install an application on your smartphone capable of generating temporary codes (TOTP).

For greater convenience, you can also install a browser plugin to allow quick access directly from your workstation. This plugin can be used alongside smartphone apps to create a multi-platform solution.

Regarding smartphones, you can freely choose between Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator. Both are free and available for both Android and iPhone (iOS).

Option A: Browser Extensions

You can configure a browser plugin that generates the OTP. For example, the third-party plugin Authenticator.cc is available. Below are the installation links for the main web browsers.

⚠️ Please Note: To use the browser extension, you must save the secret key or the QR code during the 2FA activation phase. 

It is highly recommended to save the secret key and then enter it directly into the browser extension.

Link per Google Chrome

Link per Firefox

Link per Microsoft Edge

Option B: Microsoft Authenticator 

Link per app Android

Link per app Apple

Ideal because it allows cloud backup of your codes in case you change your phone.

• Download the App: Open the App Store (if you have an iPhone) or the Play Store (if you have an Android). Search for "Microsoft Authenticator". Install the app (the icon is blue with a white padlock).
• First Launch: Open the app. Accept the privacy policy. If it asks you to log in with a personal Microsoft account, you can do so (it is useful for backups), or you can skip this step by pressing "Skip" or the "X" at the top.
• Ready to use: You will now see the main screen. To add your university account, press the "+" button (top right) or the "Add account" button.

Option C: Google Authenticator

Link per app Android

Link per app Apple

Ideal for those seeking simplicity and immediacy; it allows cloud backup of your codes in case you change your phone.

• Download the App: Open the App Store (if you have an iPhone) or the Play Store (if you have an Android). Search for "Google Authenticator". Install the app (the icon is a colorful asterisk on a white/gray background).
• First Launch: Open the app and press "Get started". You will be asked to log in with your Google account. This is highly recommended to save your codes in the cloud (so you don't lose them if you lose your phone).
• Ready to use: On the main screen, you will find a colorful "+" button at the bottom right. You will use this to scan the QR code.

 Option D: Open-source Android applications 

In specific cases where, for example, you CANNOT use the Google or Microsoft stores, you can opt for alternative applications. These are open-source apps. Specifically, you can use:

• FreeOTP: A very lightweight app created by Red Hat (an open-source software giant).
• Aegis Authenticator: Another excellent and secure alternative for Android.

What is F-Droid? 

Simply put, F-Droid is an alternative to the Google Play Store for Android devices.

How do I install FreeOTP via F-Droid? 

You can install it at the following link.

How do I install Aegis Authenticator via F-Droid? 

You can install it at the following link.