If you want to activate two-factor authentication and protect your Apple ID, read our post.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) refers to proof of your own identity by combining two components that are independent of one another. A classic example is the bank card, including the PIN entry at the ATM.
The bank card cannot be used without a PIN. This process is also possible for the Apple ID by entering a six-digit code that is sent to a trustworthy telephone number in addition to a user name and password. You can find out how to activate 2FA in our tips + tricks.
- How does two-factor authentication work at Apple?
- Activate two-factor authentication using an iPhone or iPad
- Activate two-factor authentication on a Mac
How does two-factor authentication work at Apple?
With two-factor authentication, you can access your Apple ID on trusted devices such as the iPhone, iPad, or Mac. IOS 9 or newer or macOS El Capitan or newer is required. The next time you register with a device, you will need to enter your password and a six-digit verification code.
Entering these two components improves the security of your personal information at Apple. If someone else knows your password, it will no longer be sufficient to access your Apple ID. Each time you log in to a device, you will be asked for the confirmation code, which will be sent to one of your already registered, trusted devices. How to activate the 2FA for the first time via an iPhone or a Mac, read the following instructions.
Activate two-factor authentication on the iPhone
Follow our step-by-step instructions or take a look at the quick start guide.
- Step 1: Open iPhone Settings and go to your name at the top.
- 2nd step: Now tap on ” Password & Security. ” When prompted, enter the password for your Apple ID.
- 3rd step: Then go to ” Activate ” under ” Two-factor authentication. “
- 4th step: Apple will now point out the security instructions for two-factor authentication. Read it and tap ” Continue. “
- 5th step: You must now enter the phone number of the device you want to receive the confirmation codes. Choose whether you want to receive the confirmation via text message or phone call.
- 6th step: Enter your verification code sent to the number you provided. After you have confirmed this phone number, two-factor authentication is automatically activated.
Activate two-factor authentication on the Mac
Follow our step-by-step instructions or take a look at the quick start guide.
- Step 1: Open the Apple menu and choose System Preferences.
- 2nd step: Now click on ” iCloud. “
- 3rd step: Under your Apple ID, select Account Details.
- 4th step: Click on ” Security ” and select ” Enable two-factor authentication ” at the bottom.
- 5th step: Apple will notify you of the conditions for two-factor authentication. Click on ” Continue. “
- 6th step: Enter your phone number and choose whether you want to receive the verification code via text message or phone call. Click on ” Continue ” again.
- 7th step: Enter the verification code that was sent to you on the telephone number you just provided. After that, two-factor authentication is automatically activated.
Brief instructions: Activate two-factor authentication on the iPhone
- Open Settings and go to your name at the top.
- Tap on ” Password & Security. “
- Then go to ” Activate ” under ” Two-factor authentication. “
- Confirm with ” Continue. “
- Enter your phone number and tap Next.
- Then enter the confirmation code you received. After that, the 2FA is automatically activated.
Quick guide: Activate two-factor authentication on the Mac
- Go to the Apple menu and open ” System Preferences. “
- Click iCloud.
- Choose Account Details > Security > Enable Two-Factor Authentication .
- Read the terms and click ” Continue. “
- Enter your phone number, select the type of confirmation you will receive, and then click Continue.
- Enter the verification code. The 2FA has now activated automatically.