6 Best Google Authenticator Alternatives

Multifactor authentication is among the most effective methods to increase security. thanks to the proliferation of applications like Google Authenticator, the authentication method is now much more accessible to use. In this blog, we read the top popular Google Authenticator alternatives with advantages and disadvantages.

However, whether it’s due to privacy concerns, a deficiency of updates (especially in the case of open-source solutions), or just a preference many prefer to not use Google Authenticator.

6 Best Google Authenticator Alternatives

There’s no shortage of competition available each offering distinct advantages. Here are the most popular Google Authenticator alternatives.

1. Microsoft Authenticator

Microsoft Authenticator offers the same experience as Google’s and can be used with both Microsoft accounts and non-Microsoft.

Passwords are not required. Accounts can be accessed using PIN codes, fingerprints, or facial recognition. It is also possible to save data to the cloud however this requires a private Microsoft account in addition to iOS users also having to join to an iCloud account.

Features

• Provides two-factor authentication.
• Provides passwordless sign-in.
• It supports push notifications.
• Supports MFA.

Pros

• 2FA and MFA add an additional level of protection.
• Simple to utilize to use with Microsoft accounts as well as other supported services.
• A user-friendly interface that allows Push notifications to approve MFA.
• It supports a variety of authentication methods, including biometrics, phone sign-in, and even fingerprints.

Cons

• Some services do not are compatible with Microsoft Authentication for 2FA or MFA, which limits the use of MFA.
• The app must be downloaded on the mobile device in order to make use of 2FA or MFA which causes problems when the device is stolen or is not accessible.

Also read: Best 10 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Solutions

2. Twilio Authy

Although they’re not as popular or as well-known in the same way as Google and Microsoft. Twilio’s Authy application is among the most powerful and packed with features of Google Authenticator alternatives. Twilio is proud of being able to say that its application is available everywhere Google Authenticator can be used so those who make the switch will not encounter any issues with compatibility that aren’t expected.

They have their own unique advantages, with a variety of quality-of-life functions that make it simpler to access your data in a secure manner. The app is accessible across multiple platforms iOS, Android, and Chrome, and allows you to sync two-factor authentication tokens between all of them to ensure they’re always available in case you require to use them. You can also view and modify the devices you have at any point as well as create secure encrypted backups in the event that any of them ever get stolen or lost.

Features

• Two-factor authentication.
• Multi-device sync.
• Soft token backup and soft.
• MFA.
• Time-based, one-time password.

Pros

• 2FA as well as MFA support for a variety of authentication methods.
• Soft token technology eliminates the requirement for a physical token.
• Multidevice sync means users can access 2FA codes on different devices.

Cons

• Advanced features and customizing are only available with the paid plan.

3. Cisco Duo

There are some who might find the name Cisco a bit surprising in this list, considering that they are often associated with routers, internet phone systems, and other hardware. They’re certainly not weak in the realm of software however and including Duo provides a strong enterprise Google Authenticator alternative.

The MFA product is part of a suite of programs that can be used to create and manage other important IT features like remotely accessible access or access controls. This is an option for commercial users, however, the price reflects the fact that.

While the majority of alternative solutions that Google Authenticator are completely free however, they are likely to be restricted in terms of choices, Duo can offer you lots of features for a small cost if you’re willing for it. The free version that Cisco recommends is targeted at smaller teams and individuals it is similar to the features Google provides and is sufficient for most, but it will be up against such as Authy. If you’re looking for access to a desktop or any of the more special features Duo provides, or are more than 10 people, then you’ll have been paying per user. Prices start at $3 per user per month. This increases to $9 or possibly more based on the exact features you want.

Features

• Risk-based authentication.
• Single sign-on.
• Passwordless authentication.
• Complete device visibility.

Pros

• Comprehensive package for complete zero-trust access.
• Remote access via VPN for private resources.
• Simple and user-friendly interface for end users as well as administrators.
• Complete trust in the device with an endpoint security check.

Cons

• Costly for companies with many users who want to take advantage of advanced functions.
• Could require additional configuration and setup This could be a challenge for users who are not tech-savvy.

4. Yubico Security Key

The Google Authenticator alternative definitely offers something unique. Instead of relying on an app that runs on a desktop or phone, Yubico provides an actual key that acts to act as an authentication. This key, available in two USB-C and USB-A versions, can work straight out of the box with the majority of websites you’d think it would be able to work with, including commonly used password managers and other programs.

The use of the key is simple The documentation is comprehensive and easy to read The key itself is very sturdy and long-lasting. In addition to the basic USB plug connection, tap-and-go authentication for mobile applications is also included. Yubico offers keys with additional options, including those in the YubiKey Bio series, which includes biometric security via the use of fingerprint sensors.

Pricing is contingent on what size your company is and whether you want to purchase the keys using an upfront payment or you decide to subscribe. It is certainly possible to get benefits to larger businesses but smaller enterprises who are confident that they won’t lose their keys could prefer to pay one time and forget about it.

Features

• Two-factor authentication.
• FIDO2 as well as U2F support.
• Multiprotocol protocol support.
• Physical security.

Pros

• Secure authentication using FIDO2 along with U2F support.
• Compatible with a variety of platforms and service providers, increasing flexibility and user-friendliness.
• Offers more security against compromise of accounts.
• Passwordless login improves users’ experience, security, and user satisfaction.

Cons

• Hardware security keys can be costly for certain.
• The requirement to use a physical security key to authenticate could make them less practical in comparison to mobile-based authentication techniques.

Also read: Top 11 Enterprise Password Management Solutions

5. FreeOTP

One of the complaints about Google Authenticator is that it’s not open-source anymore as the repositories for it are not being updated for a number of years. It’s not a problem for FreeOTP however, since it’s entirely open-source.

Available for the two platforms of Android and iOS This authentication app is surprisingly light and simple in both the user experience and features.

Features

• 2FA.
• Open-source software
• Time-Based One-Time Password.
• HMAC-Based One-Time Password.

Pros

• Open-source software that is accessible and transparent.
• Strong 2FA support is available with TOTP as well as HOTP authenticating methods.
• Cross-platform support is available for Android and iOS devices.
• It is completely offline and does not require internet connectivity for authentication, which increases security.

Cons

• Users should have their mobile devices with them to sign in, which may be less user-friendly than the hardware-based 2FA options.
• The dependence on mobile devices could be a risk in the event that the device gets damaged, lost, or not working.

6. LastPass

LastPass is an established and trusted password manager designed to make it easier and improve password management. LastPass solves the problem of managing passwords by offering a safe centralized platform that can store the passwords, generate and autofill passwords, making sure that users have strong authentic passwords to every account, avoiding the hassle of remembering.

With LastPass, users can create a master password that serves as the key to their secure password vault. It is safe to save login credentials for websites applications, websites, and other online services in the vault. It is only the master password that the user needs to remember, removing the necessity of passwords that are weak or repetitive. LastPass offers the benefit of automatically filling in login information which reduces the chance of errors in typing while increasing the speed of login.

One of the best features of LastPass is the capability to generate highly secure passwords on the user’s behalf. The passwords generated randomly are difficult and hard for hackers to penetrate, thereby protecting accounts from hacking attempts.

Features

• MFA.
• Auto-fill and fill out forms.
• Password storage.
• Secure notes and digital wallets

Pros

• Secure password generation and auto-fill capabilities enhance security and make it easier to use.
• Cross-platform support for various devices and operating systems.
• MFA options can help protect your account.
• Secure password-sharing features allow collaboration between team members or family members.

Cons

• Users should trust a master password, which makes keeping it safe and storing it is crucial.
• Some of the most advanced features are only available on the premium plan. There are some key features that are available only in the premium.