Gmail Tips: How To Set Up Two-Step Verification

Two-Step Verification, also known as Two-Factor Authentication, is a super helpful security feature that does add an extra layer of protection to your Gmail account against unauthorized access.

Want to know how to set up two-step verification for your Gmail account? If so, the instructions below are definitely what you are looking for; let’s check them out now!

How To Set Up Two-Step Verification

Before jumping into details on how to set up two-step verification for Gmail, it’s important to note that once this feature is enabled, Google will add a second step to verify that it’s really you.

To be more specific, in addition to your login information (your username or your email address and password), you will have to enter a security code sent via text message or a mobile authentication app.

On Computer

Step 1. Go to https://mail.google.com/ and log into your account.

Step 2. Click on your profile picture at the top right corner of the Gmail screen and select "Manage Your Google Account."

Step 3. From the top menu bar, select "Security." Next, under the "How you sign in to Google" section, select "2-Step Verification."

Step 4. Now, you should see a short explanation of the "2-Step Verification" feature. If you are ready to turn it on, click the "Get Started" button in the bottom-right corner of the screen.

Step 5. Enter your password to verify it’s you before you can continue the further steps.

Step 6. On the next screen, enter your phone number into the text area under "What phone number do you want to use?". It’s important to note that a verification code will be sent to this phone number whenever you log into your Gmail account.

Step 7. Choose how you want to get codes: Text message or Phone call. Now, click "Next."

Step 8. Google will send you a verification code via text message (if you selected "Text message" in the previous step) or phone call (if you selected the "Phone call" option in the previous step). Simply enter the code to confirm that it works. Then, click "Next" to continue.

Step 9. On the next screen, select "Turn On."

Now that the "2-Step Verification" feature is already turned on for your Gmail account.

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On the Gmail mobile app

The process of setting the "2-Step Verification" feature on the Gmail mobile app is as straightforward as doing so on your desktop computer. And here’s how to set up two-step verification on the Gmail app:

Step 1. Open the Gmail app on your device.

Step 2. Tap your profile picture at the top-right corner of the screen. Next, tap "Manage your Google Account."

Step 3. In the navigation panel, tap Security.

Step 4. Scroll to the "How you sign in to Google" section, tap "2-Step Verification."

Step 5. Enter your password to verify it’s you before you can continue the further steps.

Step 6. Tap Get started.

Step 7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process of setting up the "2-Step Verification" feature on Gmail. They are quite similar to the steps in the previous section (you’ll also need to enter your phone number, enter the verification code to confirm your phone number works, and more).

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FAQs answered

Why enable 2-Step Verification for your Gmail account?

As previously mentioned, 2-Step Verification will require you to enter a code that Google sends to confirm that it's really you. It's just one more step, but it significantly lowers the chance that the personal information in your Google account is stolen by someone else.

How long does it take to sign into my Gmail account with 2-Step Verification?

2-Step Verification adds more protection and security to your account with one more step to verify that it’s really you. Despite that fact, it’s still pretty quick and easy to sign in to your account.

How does two-step verification work when I do not have my phone?

If you do not have your phone with you, or even worse, if you lose your phone, Google can still help you sign in to your account using your recovery email. So, be sure that your recovery information is totally complete and up-to-date as well.

Bottom line

Now that you know how to set up two-step verification on Gmail from your desktop computer or via the Gmail app. It’s quite simple and easy, right? And it’s also worth noting that in addition to 2-Step Verification, you can opt for additional methods like Backup Code and Google Authenticator.