Google Authenticator logo

Google Authenticator

Security
Not Privacy Focused

Google Authenticator is a software-based authenticator that generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) for two-factor authentication (2FA). It provides an extra layer of security for online accounts by requiring a code from the app in addition to a password. While Google Authenticator is widely used and easy to set up, its lack of backup and synchronization options can be problematic if the device is lost or damaged.

Key Features:

Simple to use
TOTP generation
Offline codes
Wide compatibility
Free to use
No account needed

Properties:

No backup option
Device dependent
No account recovery
Privacy concerns
Limited features
No multi-device
Google Authenticator screenshot

Privacy-Focused Alternative

Bitwarden logoBitwarden
Open‑source credential vault

Bitwarden Authenticator offers better convenience and security than Google Authenticator due to its integration with Bitwarden's password manager and its backup and synchronization options. While Google Authenticator provides basic 2FA functionality, it lacks backup and synchronization, which can lead to account lockout if the device is lost. Bitwarden Authenticator's integration with a password manager and its backup features make it a more user-friendly and secure choice for managing 2FA codes.

E2E Encryption
Open-source code
Cross-platform
Self-hosting option
Security audits

Non Privacy-Focused Alternatives