It doesn’t matter what type of gadget you use. It can be a PC, smartphone or tablet, but it is important to protect the device. With the use of numerous apps, it is imperative to be sure that it is being used safely. For this, the best option is to use two-factor authentication.
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2FA works perfectly with Google Authenticator. This app generates OTP based on timestamps. Together with the access details, the user must enter the 6-digit code. The OTP will only be available to the person who has the secret key for the particular app that the user needs to access.
Sometimes it can happen that Authenticator may not work with iPhone. As a result, apps with 2FA enabled will not allow the user to log in. In this guide, I’ll tell you how to fix it if Google Authenticator isn’t working on your iPhone.
Reason why Google Authenticator is not working as expected
The authentication app works on the time and date set on the user’s device. This is applicable to all apps. If a mismatch occurs with a timestamp generated on the authentication app and on the device, the user cannot be authenticated.
Additionally, this issue can occur due to a bug in the Google Authenticator app. There may be some system bugs that could be causing this problem. I have developed some basic solutions that should help you solve this problem.
How to fix Google Authenticator not working on iPhone.?
Now, let’s start with the solution part.
Install the latest update available for Google Authenticator
As I said above, there may be some bugs in the app itself. It rarely happens, but still, it’s a possibility. When the developers understand this, they will release a fix for the app. So, you need to check on the Apple App Store for any updates just available for Google Authenticator.
Reboot your device
Maybe you’ve recently made some changes to the time zone and that’s why it’s causing this problem with Google Authenticator. Then, restart your iPhone so that the time zone is automatically set based on the region in which you are present. Otherwise, you can also manually set the date and time.
Install System Update on iPhone
If your system is facing some kind of bug due to an older version of the operating system, you need to update it. Having a version of the buggy system and earlier can also cause a problem with the authentication app. So, check if you have missed a new software update for your device.
- Go to Settings > tap General
- Switch to Software Update
- If a new update is available, you will see it with the changelog.
- Tap on Download and Install
- After installation, restart your device. Now, the problem with the authentication app should be solved.
Automatic time zone settings
In today’s automation date, a good gadget is the one that automatically takes care of some activities. Fortunately, modern smartphones can set the date and time themselves. They do this based on the location of the device or its user. So, we have to enable the automatic time set on the iPhone.
- Go to Settings > General
- Under that touch on Date and Time
- Enable the switch next to Set automatically
Now restart your iPhone and try to access your choice of apps that apply 2FA using the Google Authenticator app. It will definitely work.
Uninstall and reinstall Google Authenticator
If all else doesn’t work, there is a last resort you can follow to uninstall the Authenticator app. Don’t worry, you have to reinstall it again. However, you will lose all previous configurations and settings. You need to set it up again.
To uninstall,
- Go to your collection of apps
- Long press on Google Authenticator
- From the mini menu touch Delete app
Now, to install the app again, go to the App Store.
So that’s all. To implement a secure user experience, it is always recommended to use 2FA. So if you have a problem with Google Authenticator, follow the methods above and fix all the problems. I hope this guide has been helpful.
