Two-factor authentication is a recommended security feature that can help protect your Sync account from unauthorized access. Enabling two-factor authentication means that the Sync apps and web panel will require an additional security code (along with your password) when you sign in to your account or add a new computer or device.
You can enable two-factor authentication using a mobile authenticator app or using email delivery.
This article will cover the following:
How-to enable or disable 2FA using email delivery:
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) via email is the simplest way to add an extra layer of security to your account. With this method, a verification code will be sent to your registered email address each time you sign in or install Sync on a new device. Follow the steps below to enable email-based 2FA.
- Sign in to the web panel.
- Click Settings from the left navigation bar.
- Click the Security tab.
- Click the ⚙︎ (settings cog) beside Two-factor authentication.
- Click Enable 2FA via email (or click Disable 2FA if already enabled).
- Confirm by clicking the Enable 2FA button.
- Download the backup codes and store them in a safe place. You can use each backup code once, in the event that you need to sign in and do not have access to your email.
2FA is now enabled. Check your email address (inbox or junk folder) for the security code each time you sign in to the web panel or install Sync on a new computer or device.
How-to enable 2FA using an authenticator app:
Before you begin you will need to download and install the Google Authenticator app (or any TOTP compatible app) on your phone or tablet. Get it on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Sign in to the web panel.
- Click Settings from the left navigation bar.
- Click the Security tab.
- Click the (settings cog) beside Two-factor authentication.
- Click Enable 2FA via Authenticator app.
- Note: if 2FA is currently set to Email, click Disable 2FA first.
- Open the Authenticator app on your mobile device and tap Scan a QR Code.
- You may have to tap + first, if you've already set up the app with other services.
- Scan the QR code displayed on the Sync web panel.
- Click Continue.
- The Google Authenticator app will provide a 6-digit verification code. Enter the verification code on the Sync web panel and click Save.
- Be sure to download the backup codes and store them in a safe place. You can use each backup code once, in the event that you do not have access to your mobile device.
2FA is now enabled. You will have to check the Google Authenticator app for the additional security code each time you sign in into the web panel or install Sync on a new computer or device.
How to change your 2FA method:
To update your two-factor authentication (2FA) delivery method, such as switching from email to an authenticator app, follow these steps:
- Sign in to the web panel.
- Click Settings from the left navigation bar.
- Click the Security tab.
- Click the ⚙︎ (settings cog) beside Two-factor authentication.
- To change your 2FA method (email or authenticator app), click Disable next to your current method.
- Once disabled, click the ⚙︎ (settings cog) again, and select your new 2FA delivery method.
New backup codes will be generated and sent to your email. Download and store them securely, as each code can be used once if you lose access to your email or 2FA app.
Generating new backup codes:
When two-factor authentication (2FA) is enabled, you will be provided with a set of backup codes. These codes serve as an alternative way to access your account if you’re unable to use your email or authenticator app. Each backup code can only be used once so it is crucial to generate a new set before you run out.
To generate new backup codes, follow these steps:
- Navigate to Settings and select the Security tab.
- Click the ⚙︎ (settings cog) next to Two-factor authentication.
- Select Generate new backup codes.
- Enter your password when prompted to confirm the action.
- A new set of backup codes will be provided for you to download and store securely.
If you’ve exhausted all your backup codes and can’t generate a new set, you’ll need to contact support for assistance.