7 Step Guide to Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Instagram

 

Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on Instagram is a great way to add an extra layer of security to your account. Here’s how you can set it up on both mobile devices and a computer.

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication on Mobile Devices (iOS and Android)

Using the Instagram App

Open the Instagram on your smartphone or tablet:

Ensure you're logged into the account for which you want to enable two-factor authentication.

Press your profile picture located in the lower right-hand corner:

Press the hamburger menu icon in the upper right-hand corner:

Select "Settings" from the options at the end.

Navigate to Security:

In Settings, tap "Security".

Select Two-Factor Authentication:

Tap "Two-Factor Authentication".

Tap "Get Started".

Select Your Security Method:

You can enable two-factor authentication using two methods: "Text Message" or "Authentication App".

Text Message:

Toggle on "Text Message".

Instagram will send a confirmation code to your phone number, which you have to enter to complete the setup.

Authentication App:

Toggle on "Authentication App".

If you have an authentication app (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy), follow the instructions to link it to your Instagram account. If you don’t have one, you will be prompted to download an app first.

On the authentication app, scan the QR code provided by Instagram, and enter the code generated by the app.

Store these backup codes securely:

Instagram will provide you with backup codes to use if you cannot access your phone or authentication app.

Complete Setup:

Once you've set up your preferred method and saved your backup codes, two-factor authentication will be enabled.

 

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication on a Computer (Web Browser)

Go to Instagram.com on your web browser:

Select your profile image in the upper right-hand corner:

Select "Settings" from the dropdown menu.

Access Security Settings:

On the left select "Privacy and Security".

Select Two-Factor Authentication:

Scroll down to the "Two-Factor Authentication" section.

Click "Edit Two-Factor Authentication Settings".

Select Your Security Method:

You can enable two-factor authentication using two methods: "Text Message" or "Authentication App".

Text Message:

Check the box next to "Text Message".

Instagram sends a confirmation code to your phone number, which you have to enter to complete the setup.

Authentication App:

Check the box next to "Authentication App".

If you have an authentication app (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy), follow the instructions to link it to your Instagram account. If you don’t have one, you will be prompted to download an app first.

On the authentication app, scan the QR code provided by Instagram, and enter the code generated by the app.

Store these backup codes securely:

Instagram will provide you with backup codes to use if you cannot access your phone or authentication app.

Complete Setup:

Once you've set up your preferred method and saved your backup codes, two-factor authentication will be enabled.

Additional Tips for Security

Regularly Update Passwords: Change your Instagram password periodically and use a strong, unique password.

Keep Backup Codes Safe: Store your backup codes in a secure location in case you lose access to your phone or authentication app.

Monitor Login Activity: Regularly check your login activity in the Instagram settings to ensure there are no unauthorized logins.