What is Two-Factor Authentication?

A simple explanation of 2FA and how it protects your account

The basics

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds a second step to your login on top of your password. Even if someone learns your password, they still cannot access your account without this second step.

The second step is a 6-digit code generated by an authenticator app on your phone. The code changes every 30 seconds and can only be used once.

How it works when you log in

  1. Enter your email and password as usual.
  2. Open your authenticator app on your phone.
  3. Find the AIVRE entry and copy the 6-digit code shown.
  4. Enter that code on the login screen before it expires.

Setting up an authenticator app

You will need a free authenticator app installed on your phone. These are some of the most common options:

During setup, you will be shown a QR code and a text code. Open your authenticator app, tap the button to add a new account, and either scan the QR code or manually enter the text code. The app will then generate codes for AIVRE automatically.

Recovery codes

When you set up 2FA with AIVRE, you will be given a recovery code. This is a one-time backup code you can use instead of your 6-digit code if you ever lose access to your phone or authenticator app.

Save this code somewhere safe — a password manager, a printed note stored securely, or any other safe location. Once used, a new recovery code is generated.

Locked out?

If you cannot access your authenticator app and have lost your recovery code, contact your organization admin or reach out in our Slack community.