How to Use Duo Mobile to Authenticate for Google 2-Step Verification

Introduction

Did you know that you can use Duo Mobile as an authentication method for Google 2-Step Verification?

Whenever you need to log into your Google account, you can simply enter a code from your Duo Mobile app.

Steps for Setup

To add Duo Mobile as an authentication method for Google 2FV, follow the steps below. 

1. On a computer, navigate to https://myaccount.google.com/security and log in to your UAH email account
2. Scroll down to the section titled How you sign in to Google. Near the bottom of this section, you will see a list of additional sign-in options you can add. Click Authenticator
   
3. Click + Set up authenticator
   
4. A QR code will display. Leave this screen displayed on your computer screen and swap to your mobile device.
5. On your mobile device, download Duo Mobile if it is not already installed
6. If you're already using Duo Mobile to sign in with Duo, tap Add + in the top right of the screen
   
7. Select Use QR Code 
   
8. Scan the QR code shown on your computer screen. You'll be prompted to enter the name of the account. We recommend naming it something recognizable, such as your UAH email address.
9. After adding your Google account to Duo Mobile, you'll be able to generate Passcodes for the account.
10. On your computer, click Next
    
11. You'll be prompted to enter a 6-digit code from the app. In the Duo Mobile app, tap Show to show the 6-digit passcode. On your computer, enter the code and click Verify
    
    

Now you're ready to use Duo Mobile to log in to your UAH Google account!

Steps for Logging In

The next time you log in, you'll be able to use Duo Mobile as your second step.

1. Enter your username and password as normal
   
2. Google may default to a different 2-Step Verification method. To change your 2-Step method, select Try another way. Then, select Get a verification code from the Google Authenticator app.
   
3. On your mobile device, open Duo Mobile and tap Show next to your Google account.
   
4. Enter the 6-digit code shown here and you're in!
   

Please note: Google automatically assumes you are using their official Google Authenticator app, which is why you may see phrasing specific to their application. However, this method works just the same for Duo Mobile. 

Still Have Questions?

Need help with Duo Mobile or Google 2-Step Verification? Contact the OIT Help Desk.