How To
How to set up two-factor authentication on Facebook

- May 24, 2018
- Updated: July 2, 2025 at 6:28 AM

Two-factor authorization adds a much-needed extra layer of security in today’s ever-turbulent digital age. It adds an extra way of proving who you are should you access your online accounts in an unusual way. If you log in on a friend’s device, for example, or from an internet café, you’ll be prompted to authorize access to your account using a predefined method. Should your password be compromised, your account needn’t be, and because of this two-factor authorization is recommended by every security expert who is good at their job.
Facebook wants to make it easier for you to set up two-factor authorization on your Facebook account, so let’s have a look at how to do it now.
Until now, you’ve had to give Facebook your phone number to activate two-factor authorization, which itself comes with certain security implications. Now, however, you can use a third-party authentication app such as Okta or Google Authenticator. These apps generate instant verification codes that can then be used to authenticate who you are.
How to set up two-step authorization on Facebook
On top of this new feature, Facebook has added a simple step-by-step walkthrough guide that will get you set up with two-factor authorization. All you have to do is go to Settings in the Facebook app or on the desktop version. From there click on Security and Login and towards the bottom of the screen, you’ll find the Use two-factor authorization option. After that simply click Get Started and Facebook will walk you through the rest.
We can’t recommend enough that you activate two-factor authorization and take advantage of this new, easy to use security profile.
Patrick Devaney is a news reporter for Softonic, keeping readers up to date on everything affecting their favorite apps and programs. His beat includes social media apps and sites like Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, Twitter, YouTube, and Snapchat. Patrick also covers antivirus and security issues, web browsers, the full Google suite of apps and programs, and operating systems like Windows, iOS, and Android.
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