How to turn on two-factor authentication for Facebook
Last checked
Short answer
Where the setting is
On Facebook, the setting is in Accounts Center: Settings & privacy, then Settings, then Accounts Center, Password and security, then Two-factor authentication.
Facebook’s help page says that when you turn on two-factor authentication, “you’ll be asked to choose one of 3 security methods”: a security key, login codes from a third-party authentication app, or text message (SMS) codes. This guide covers the authentication app.
Install a third-party authentication app on your device. It’s best to install the app on the device you normally use to access Facebook.
Click on your profile picture in the top right, then click Settings & privacy.
Click Settings.
Click Accounts Center, then click Password and security.
Click Two-factor authentication, then click on the account you’d like to update.
Click Authentication app.
Follow the set-up instructions, then click Next.
Enter the code generated from the app, then click Next.
Other route
If those steps don’t work for you
Facebook says: “Not everyone will be able to access this setting in Meta Account or Accounts Center at this time. If these steps don’t work for you, try the steps below:”
Install a third-party authentication app on your device. It’s best to install the app on the device you normally use to access Facebook.
Go to your Security and Login Settings.
Scroll down to Use two-factor authentication and click Edit. You may be asked to re-enter your password at this point.
Click Use Authentication App when you’re asked to choose your security method.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Backup
Save your backup codes
Facebook says: “You can get 10 recovery login codes to use when you’re unable to use your phone.” Facebook has its own help article on setting them up, which this guide does not cover. Keep any codes apart from your phone, and if you ever lose it, see our guide on what to do if you lose your phone.
