Step 1: Get your keys
Step 2: Add a key to your account
- Open a compatible browser, like Chrome, FireFox, or Safari (13.0.4 or higher).
- Enroll your security key. You might need to sign in.
Step 3: Sign in with your key
With your phone's built-in security key
Sign in with your Android phone's built-in key
- Make sure Bluetooth is turned on for both devices.
- Sign in on the new device:
- On a computer or Chromebook, sign in to your Google Account using a supported browser, like Chrome.
- On an iPhone or iPad, sign in to your Google Account using the Smart Lock app.
- Check your Android phone for a notification.
- Double-tap the "Are you trying to sign in?" notification.
- Follow the instructions to confirm it’s you signing in.
Sign in with your iPhone's built in key
- Make sure Bluetooth is turned on for both devices.
- Sign in to your Google Account on a Chrome OS (version 79 and above), iOS, macOS, or Windows 10 device.
- Check your iPhone for a Smart Lock notification. Tap the notification.
- To verify your sign-in, tap Yes.
With a security key you purchased
- On your computer, open a compatible browser like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Opera.
- Sign in to your Google Account. Your device will detect that your account has a security key.
- Connect your key to the USB port in your computer.
- If you see a message from "Google Play services," select OK. If not, move on to step 5.
- Activate your key:
- If your key has a gold disc, tap it.
- If your key has a gold tip, tap and then press it.
- If your key has a button, press it.
- If your key has none of these features, you may need to remove and reinsert it. This type of key turns off after each use.
Tip: You can use your key each time you sign in or skip using it on devices you trust.
Lost security key
If your security key is lost, you can follow these steps to get back into your account and protect it. Choose the right steps for you depending on whether you’ve set up another second step like:
- Verification codes
- Google prompts
- Backup codes
- A different security key you’ve added to your account
- A registered computer where you previously chose not to be asked for a verification code
- Sign in to your Google Account with your password and your other second step.
- Follow the steps to remove the lost key from your account.
- Get a new security key. You may want to get an extra key you can keep in a safe place.
- Add the new key to your account.
Note: 2-Step Verification requires an extra step to prove you own an account. Because of this added security, it can take up to 3-5 business days for Google to make sure it’s you trying to sign in.
- Follow the steps to recover your account. You'll be asked some questions to confirm it's your account.
- Use these tips to answer as best you can.
- You may be asked:
- To enter an email address or phone number where you can be reached.
- To enter a code sent to your email address or phone number. This code helps make sure you can access that email address or phone number.