I use this app instead of Google Authenticator: Why it’s much better

When it comes to protecting your online accounts, two-factor authentication (2FA) is a must. However, after years of relying on Google Authenticator, I switched to 1Password for all my authentication needs a year ago, and here’s why.

1 Google Authenticator cloud backup lacks end-to-end encryption

While Google Authenticator’s addition of cloud backup is a step in the right direction, it is currently missing an important security feature – end-to-end encryption (E2EE). Without E2EE, your secured codes may be vulnerable to unauthorized access, defeating the purpose of using 2FA in the first place.

E2EE is planned for future implementation, but Google is taking a cautious approach to its rollout. While this is understandable, it means that users do not have the highest level of security for their secured 2FA codes in the meantime. This lack of E2EE is particularly concerning considering Google has had security issues in the past, such as discovering a security flaw in 2018. Google Password Manager is safe and secure, but there are other options you can use.

1Password ensures that all data, including 2FA codes, is protected with AES-256 encryption. Until Google Authenticator implements E2EE for its cloud backup feature, I’ll stick with 1Password for my 2FA needs.

2 I get password manager and 2FA authenticator in one app

Another main reason I switched to 1Password is the convenience of having both a password manager and a 2FA authenticator in a single app. With 1Password, I no longer have to juggle multiple apps to manage my online security.

By integrating 2FA codes into my login credentials through 1Password, I can access my accounts with just a few taps – no more hassle with copying and pasting codes. Additionally, 1Password’s Watchtower feature monitors my passwords and alerts me to any breaches or weak passwords that need to be updated. Therefore I can also use 2FA for this app or website.

3 I can securely access my codes on all devices

Another big benefit of using 1Password for 2FA is that I can access my codes on all of my devices. Whether on my phone, tablet or PC, I can easily retrieve my 2FA codes without compromising security.

This cross-device sync is made possible by 1Password’s encryption and secure cloud storage. Because my data is protected by AES-256 encryption, I can trust that my codes are secure no matter what device I use. You will need your secret key and password to log in to 1Password on a new device.

In contrast, syncing with Google Authenticator is currently limited to mobile devices, and even these lack the protection of E2EE.

1Password, on the other hand, is available on all major platforms – iOS, Android, Windows, macOS and Linux.

The combination of security, convenience, and cross-platform accessibility makes 1Password my top choice when it comes to securing accounts with 2FA codes. While Google Authenticator remains a popular option, 1Password’s all-in-one approach and encryption give me peace of mind.