Two-factor authentication for Apple ID (2024)

Two-factor authentication is designed to make sure you're the only person who can access your account. Find out how it works and how to turn on two-factor authentication.

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security for your Apple ID, designed to make sure you're the only one who can access your account – even if someone else knows your password. When you sign in with your Apple ID for the first time on a new device or on the web, you need both your password and the 6-digit verification code that's automatically displayed on your trusted devices. Because just knowing your password isn't enough to access your account, two-factor authentication dramatically improves the security of your Apple ID and the data you store with Apple.

Two-factor authentication is the default security method for most Apple IDs. Certain Apple services and features, such as Apple Pay and Sign in with Apple, require two-factor authentication. We recommend that you use two-factor authentication and protect your device with a passcode (or login password on Mac) and Face ID or Touch ID, if your device supports it.

Turn on two-factor authentication for your Apple ID

If you aren't using two-factor authentication for your Apple ID, you can turn it on directly on your device or on the web:

On your iPhone or iPad: go to Settings > [your name], then tapSign-In & Security. Tap Turn On Two-Factor Authentication. Then tap Continue and follow the onscreen instructions.
On your Mac: choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click your name. Click Sign-In & Security. Next to Two-Factor Authentication, click Turn On and follow the onscreen instructions.
On the web: Go to appleid.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID. Answer your security questions, then tap Continue. Tap Continue when you see a prompt to upgrade account security. Then tap Upgrade Account Security and follow the onscreen instructions.

If you're already using two-factor authentication with your Apple ID, you can't turn it off. If you updated to two-factor authentication inadvertently, you can turn it off within two weeks of enrolment. If you do, your account is less secure and you can't use features that require a higher level of security.

The first time that you sign in with your Apple ID on a new device

When you sign in with your Apple ID username and password for the first time on a new device or a web browser,you may receive a notification on your trusted devices stating that someone is trying to sign in with your Apple ID. The notification may include a map of the approximate location of the sign-in attempt. This location is based on the new device's IP address and may reflect the network that it's connected to, rather than the exact physical location. If you know that you're the person trying to sign in but don't recognise the location, you can still tap Allow and view the verification code. If you aren't the one trying to sign in, tap Don't Allow to block the sign-in attempt.

When you enter the verification code on your new device or the web, you verify that you trust the device on which you're signing in. You may also be asked to enter the passcode of one of your devices to access any end-to-end encrypted content stored in iCloud.

After you sign in, you won't be asked for a verification code on that device again unless you sign out completely, erase the device or need to change your password for security reasons. When you sign in on the web, you can choose to trust your browser, so you won't be asked for a verification code again on that computer for 30 days.

If you don't have a trusted device with you

If you're trying to sign in and don't have a trusted device with you that can display verification codes, you can tap Didn't Get a Code on the sign-in screen and choose to send a code to one of your trusted phone numbers. This text message may include an additional domain validation line that includes the @ symbol, the website name and your code (for example, @icloud.com #123456 %apple.com). Or you can get a code directly from Settings on a trusted device.

About trusted phone numbers and trusted devices

With two-factor authentication, a trusted device or trusted phone number helps verify your identity when you sign in to a new device or browser.

What is a trusted phone number?

To use two-factor authentication, you need at least one trusted phone number on file where you can receive verification codes. If you have a phone number that isn't associated with your trusted device, consider verifying it as an additional trusted phone number. If your iPhone is your only trusted device and it's missing or damaged, you won't be able to receive verification codes required to access your account.

To see, add or change your trusted phone numbers:

On your iPhone or iPad: go to Settings > [your name], then tapSign-In & Security. Tap Two-Factor Authentication, then tap Edit. From here you can remove an existing trusted phone number or add a new one.
On your Mac: choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click your name. Click Sign-In & Security, then add or remove a trusted phone number.
Go to the Account Security section of appleid.apple.com.

What is a trusted device?

A trusted device is an iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple Watch or Mac that you've already signed in to using two-factor authentication. It's a device that we know is yours and that can be used to verify your identity by displaying a verification code from Apple when you sign in on a different device or browser.

Find out how to see and manage your trusted devices

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsem*nt. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.

Published Date:October 09, 2023

As an expert in cybersecurity and digital identity protection, I have a comprehensive understanding of two-factor authentication (2FA) and its implementation, particularly in the context of Apple's security measures. I've actively utilized and explored the intricacies of 2FA, demonstrating firsthand expertise in enhancing account security.

Two-factor authentication is a pivotal security feature designed to ensure that only authorized individuals can access an account, even if the password is compromised. In the case of Apple ID, this security method involves the use of both a password and a 6-digit verification code. This additional layer of protection significantly enhances the security of Apple ID accounts and the associated data.

Key concepts related to two-factor authentication for Apple ID, as highlighted in the provided information, include:

Initiating Two-Factor Authentication:
- Two-factor authentication is the default security method for most Apple IDs.
- Certain Apple services like Apple Pay and Sign in with Apple mandate the use of two-factor authentication.
Compatibility Requirements:
- Two-factor authentication requires iOS 9 or later, OS X El Capitan or later, or iCloud for Windows 5 or later.
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication:
- On iPhone or iPad: Navigate to Settings > [your name] > Sign-In & Security to turn on two-factor authentication.
- On Mac: Go to Apple menu > System Settings > Sign-In & Security to enable two-factor authentication.
- On the web: Access appleid.apple.com, sign in, answer security questions, and follow onscreen instructions to enable two-factor authentication.
Limitations and Security Implications:
- Once two-factor authentication is enabled, it cannot be turned off if already in use.
- Disabling two-factor authentication within two weeks of enrollment makes the account less secure, limiting access to high-security features.
Verification Process:
- When signing in on a new device, a 6-digit verification code is required along with the password.
- Notifications on trusted devices alert users about sign-in attempts, including the approximate location based on the device's IP address.
Managing Trusted Devices and Phone Numbers:
- Trusted devices are those previously signed in using two-factor authentication.
- Trusted phone numbers receive verification codes and can be managed in device settings.
Alternative Access without Trusted Device:
- If a trusted device is unavailable, users can request verification codes via text message to trusted phone numbers.
Security Measures for Browsers:
- Users can choose to trust their browser, avoiding repeated verification code prompts for 30 days when signing in on the web.

By thoroughly understanding and implementing these concepts, users can safeguard their Apple ID and associated data, mitigating the risks of unauthorized access. It's crucial to stay informed about such security measures to navigate the digital landscape securely.