Does Remote offer two-factor authentication (2FA)?

Yes, we currently offer stronger authentication within Remote with two-factor authentication (2FA). 

Two-factor authentication (2FA) helps protect your Remote account by adding an extra step when you log in. Even if someone knows your password, they won’t be able to access your account without a unique 6-digit code from your authentication app.

In this article:

• What is 2FA?
• What do I need to set 2FA up?
• How does 2FA work?
• How do I activate 2FA?
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is 2FA?

2FA means that you log in using both:

• Your password
• A one-time 6-digit code from an authentication app or password manager

This second step helps make sure only you can access your account—even if someone else knows your password or your account was compromised.

What do I need to set 2FA up?

Before starting, make sure you have:

• A phone, tablet, or computer
• An app that creates 2FA codes, such as Google Authenticator, Authy, Okta Verify, or Duo Mobile
  or
  A password manager that supports 2FA, like 1Password, Bitwarden, or Dashlane

How does 2FA work?

Your authentication app generates a new 6-digit code every 30 seconds. When you log in to Remote, you’ll enter your password and then the current code from your app. This step confirms it’s really you.

How do I activate 2FA?

You can follow step-by-step instructions in this article: How to activate two-factor authentication for your account

Important: Please stay on the setup page until you finish. If you refresh or leave the page before completing setup, the code in your app will no longer work and you will need to restart.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I'm changing my phone soon. What should I do to keep 2FA working?

If you are changing your device, we suggest installing your authenticator app on the new device first. Check that it shows your 2FA codes. If the codes appear, you’ll be able to log in normally. If you’re not sure how to move the app, your app provider may have instructions for transferring your 2FA settings.

I’ve lost my phone and can’t access my 2FA codes. What should I do?

If you lost your phone and no longer have access to your 2FA app, we suggest resetting your password and your 2FA.

To start the reset, go to the Remote login screen and select Reset 2FA. You’ll be asked to verify your identity using a valid government ID and a selfie.

You can follow the full process on this guide: How to reset your two-factor authentication (2FA)

I do not have a smartphone. Can I still use 2FA?

Yes. You can use a desktop-based tool like 1Password or Bitwarden on your computer. These password managers can also create 2FA codes and do not require a mobile device.

I reset my 2FA but I can’t finish identity verification. What should I do?

After starting the reset process, you have 5 tries to verify your identity with a government ID and a selfie.

If you can’t complete this after 5 attempts, please contact us through the Remote support chat. We’ll help you reset your 2FA manually.

I got an error that says “Couldn’t initialize 2FA setup. Try again later.” What does this mean?

This message often shows up because of browser cookies. Even if you see the error, 2FA may have already been set up.

You can refresh the page and try logging in with your 2FA code. If that doesn’t work, contact us through the Remote support chat and we’ll help you check.

I have a visual disability or use assistive technology. What should I do if I cannot scan the QR code?

If you cannot scan the QR code, you can choose to enter the secret key manually in your 2FA app. The secret key is shown on the screen under the QR code during setup.

If you use a screen reader or need further help, please contact us at accessibility@remote.com.

I need more help with 2FA or troubleshooting steps.

You can find more tips and solutions for 2FA issues in this article: Troubleshooting common 2FA issues

If you still need help, our team is happy to support you. You can reach us using the Remote chat.