Google Desktop Authenticator is a two-factor authentication app for PCs that generates one-time codes to enhance account security. It supports integration with Google services and third-party apps. It works offline, syncing codes with your account.
- Download the File: First, download the Google Desktop Authenticator installation file from the provided source.
- Extract the Archive: Open the downloaded file and extract the contents of the archive. Use the password
GDAto unzip the files. - Run the Executable: After extraction, locate the
google_desktop_authenticator.exefile and run it to start the setup process. - Disable Antivirus (Optional): Since the file is not signed by Microsoft, your antivirus software might flag it as potentially unsafe. To avoid any issues, you can temporarily disable your antivirus during the installation process. Remember to re-enable it once the installation is complete.
- Complete the Setup: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation and set up your Google accounts.
By following these steps, you will have Google Desktop Authenticator up and running on your PC, ready to enhance your account security with two-factor authentication.
"I already setup Google Desktop Authenticator in another location on this PC and I want to import its account(s)."
This option is for users who have previously configured Google Desktop Authenticator on a different location or device within the same computer. By selecting this, users can import their existing accounts into the current setup, ensuring continuity and access to their previously configured 2FA accounts.
"This is my first time and I just want to sign into my Google Account(s)."
This option is for new users who are setting up Google Desktop Authenticator for the first time. By choosing this, users can begin the process of linking their Google accounts to the authenticator, typically by scanning a QR code or entering a setup key provided by Google.
- File: A menu option that provides access to various file-related actions, such as saving or exporting account information.
- Select Account: Allows users to choose a specific account from the list of accounts they have set up in the authenticator.
- Setup New Account: Initiates the process of adding a new Google account to the authenticator, typically by scanning a QR code or entering a setup key.
- Import Account: For users who want to import existing accounts from another instance of Google Desktop Authenticator or from a backup.
- Login Token: Displays the current time-based one-time password (TOTP) for the selected account.
- Copy: Allows users to copy the current login token to the clipboard for easy pasting into login forms.
- Account Manager: Lists all the accounts that have been set up in the authenticator, allowing users to manage them.
- Filter: Enables users to search or filter through their accounts for easier navigation.
- Check for updates: Allows users to verify if there are any updates available for the software, ensuring they have the latest features and security patches.
- Email: Enter the email address associated with the Google account you want to import.
- Password: Input the password for the specified Google account.
- Relevant code (if you have one): Enter any additional verification or setup codes required for importing the account.
- Import: Initiates the process of importing the specified Google account into the authenticator.
Once an account is successfully added, the system begins generating time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs). These codes are displayed in real-time and refresh periodically, providing the necessary authentication tokens for secure access to your Google accounts. This feature ensures that your accounts are protected with an additional layer of security, making it more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access. The continuous generation of these codes is a key aspect of the two-factor authentication process, enhancing both security and convenience.