How to Enable New 2-Step Verification Security Mechanism in Google Accounts?

Google has introduced a new security mechanism for all Google account users. The new 2-step verification process adds an extra security layer to your Google account.

According to Google, 2-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your Google Account by requiring you to have access to your phone – as well as your username and password – when you sign in. This means that if someone steals or guesses your password, the potential hijacker still can’t sign in to your account because they don’t have your phone.

If you use Gmail or other Google Account related services, you should enable 2-step verification feature immediately.

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Following steps will help you in activating and using new 2-step verification feature in your Google Account:

How to Enable 2-Step Verification in Google Account:

1. Open Google Account page using following URL:

Google Account Page

2. Click on “Using 2-step verification” link under “Personal Settings” section.

3. If you can’t see the link, you can use following direct URL:

Using 2-step verification Link

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4. Follow the instructions and add your phone number to the extra security mechanism.

How to Use 2-Step Verification in Google Account:

1. Open desired Google page, enter your username and password.

2. You’ll next be prompted to enter your verification code, which you’ll get from your phone. You’ll only have to do this once every 30 days if you so choose.

NOTE: Once you enable 2-step verification feature, some programs such as Windows Live Mail, Thunderbird, etc will not allow you to sign in using your current password. It happens because these kind of programs don’t support 2-step verification security codes. To solve this problem, you’ll need to create application-specific password using simple steps given here.

Published in: Mobiles and Internet

About the author: Vishal Gupta (also known as VG) has been awarded with Microsoft MVP (Most Valuable Professional) award. He holds Masters degree in Computer Applications (MCA). He has written several tech articles for popular newspapers and magazines and has also appeared in tech shows on various TV channels.

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