---
title: "Enable Two-Factor Authentication"
description: "Secure your account with two-factor authentication (2FA)"
url: "https://pixelunion.eu/help/account/two-factor-authentication/"
weight: 4
---


Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your PixelUnion account. Even if someone knows your password, they won't be able to access your account without the second factor.

## What is Two-Factor authentication?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) requires two things to log in:

1. **Something you know**, your password
2. **Something you have**, either a code from an authenticator app on your phone or a passkey

The second factor can be a TOTP code from an authenticator app or a passkey (for example, a hardware security key or the fingerprint/face unlock on your device).

## How to enable 2FA

Follow these steps to enable two-factor authentication:

### Step 1: access account security

1. Go to the [PixelUnion Account Security page](https://login.pixelunion.eu/realms/pixelunion/account/account-security/signing-in)
2. Log in with your username and password

### Step 2: set up authenticator app

1. In the **Signing In** section, find **Two-Factor Authentication** or **Authenticator Application**
2. Click **Set up Authenticator Application**
3. You'll see a QR code on your screen

### Step 3: scan the QR code

1. Open your authenticator app on your phone (see recommended apps below)
2. Tap the **+** or **Add Account** button
3. Select **Scan QR Code**
4. Point your phone's camera at the QR code on your screen

### Step 4: verify and save

1. Enter the 6-digit code shown in your authenticator app
2. Click **Verify** or **Save**
3. Two-factor authentication is now enabled!

## Recommended authenticator apps

You can use any TOTP-compatible authenticator app:

- **Aegis Authenticator** (Android) - Open source, free
- **2FAS** (iOS/Android) - Open source, free
- **Google Authenticator** (iOS/Android) - Free
- **Microsoft Authenticator** (iOS/Android) - Free
- **Authy** (iOS/Android) - Free

We recommend open-source options like **Aegis** or **2FAS** for better privacy.

## Backup codes

After enabling 2FA, make sure to save your backup codes:

1. Go to **Account Security** → **Signing In**
2. Look for **Backup Codes** or **Recovery Codes**
3. Download or write down these codes
4. Store them in a safe place

⚠️ **Important**: Backup codes can be used to access your account if you lose your phone. Keep them secure!

## Logging in with 2FA

Once 2FA is enabled:

1. Enter your username and password as usual
2. Open your authenticator app
3. Enter the 6-digit code shown in the app
4. Click **Verify** to complete login

## Disabling 2FA

If you need to disable two-factor authentication:

1. Go to [Account Security](https://login.pixelunion.eu/realms/pixelunion/account/account-security/signing-in)
2. Find the **Two-Factor Authentication** section
3. Click **Remove** or **Disable**
4. Confirm your choice

## Lost your phone?

If you've lost access to your authenticator app:

1. Use one of your backup codes to log in
2. Go to Account Security and set up a new authenticator
3. If you don't have backup codes, [contact support](/support/)

## Need help?

Having trouble setting up 2FA? [Contact our support team](/support/) for assistance.