I am retired military. I had to set up my Miconnect login with two factor authentication. When I did so it gave me a list of apps from which to choose. I couldn't care less which app as I just need access the rest of my life. I chose Authy Desktop. It works perfectly. HOWEVER, I can now only log into my Milconnect account on that particular desktop.

When I try to log in elsewhere, I get the message to enter the 6 digit code from my authenticator app. I tried setting up the app on my laptop however there doesn't appear to be a way to connect the two to one another. How do I arrange it so I can log in to a website which requires two-factor authentication, on my desktop, laptop, tablet and phone.

I hope that makes sense to those of you "in the know". I always seem to get my best computer adivice on Sigforum. Thanks in advance.

I'd suggest setting it up on your phone. That's the authentication device I use to access the stuff I need to use 2FA for whether it's on my phone or various computers as I always have my phone nearby.

You have to put the Authenticator Key into each app.

I use Bitwarden for cross device authentication.

It may help to understand how most 2FA works, which is upon the principle of "something your know" (1st factor) and "something you have" (2nd factor).

The first factor is usually a set of login credentials (e.g.: username or email address, and password or pass phrase).

The second factor can be many things, but, one of the easiest things is a device in your possession to which you, and only you have access, and that access is "reasonably" secure. A smart phone can fill that role nicely, in conjunction with text messaging (which is not secure, btw) or, better yet, a dedicated secure app.

As you have found, Tomkat, a desktop isn't a very good choice because, while it may fulfill the "something you have" in principle, it's not terribly convenient to always have with you . I'd argue a laptop isn't much better.

i use id.me for deers, ss + a few other gov sites.

quote:

Originally posted by airbubba:
i use id.me for deers, ss + a few other gov sites.

This is what I use.

Good to see you, Tomkat

quote:

Originally posted by parabellum:
Good to see you, Tomkat

Sorry I missed this. Likewise my old friend. I hope you are doing well.