How to Enable 2-Step Verification (2FA) for your Gmail Account

2-Step Verification adds an extra layer of security to your Gmail account by requiring a second step—such as a phone prompt or code—when signing in.

Part 1 — Steps to Enable 2-Step Verification

1. Sign in to your Google Account

Go to: https://myaccount.google.com

Make sure you’re signed in with your Gmail account.

2. Open Your Security Settings

On the left sidebar, click Security.
Scroll down to the section titled “How you sign in to Google”.

3. Click on “2-Step Verification”

Select 2-Step Verification and click Get Started.
Google may ask you to enter your password again.

4. Choose Your Second Verification Method

Google will present several options. Common choices include:

Google Prompt (recommended) – Taps on your phone to approve sign-ins
Authenticator App (Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator)
Text Message (SMS) Codes
Phone Call
Backup Codes

Choose the method you prefer and follow the instructions on screen.

5. Complete the Verification Step

Depending on the method you selected:

You may receive a code by text
You may get a prompt on your phone
Or you may scan a QR code using an authenticator app

Confirm the code or prompt.

6. Turn On 2-Step Verification

Once your method is confirmed, click Turn On.

Your account is now protected with 2-Step Verification.

7. Add Backup Options (Strongly Recommended)

After enabling 2FA, scroll through the 2-Step settings page and consider adding:

Backup codes (print or save securely)
A secondary phone number
Authenticator app
Security key (USB/NFC)

These options help if you lose your main device.

Part 2 — If You Cannot Sign In (Forgot Password / No 2FA Access)

If you’re unable to sign in—whether because you forgot your password, lost your phone, or never set up 2FA—use the steps below.

1. Use Google Account Recovery

Go to:
https://accounts.google.com/signin/recovery

Then follow the prompts:

Enter the last password you remember
Check your recovery email (if you added one)
Check your recovery phone number
Answer questions Google uses to confirm your identity

Google may ask several security questions—answer as accurately as you can.

2. Look for “Try another way” Options

When you enter your email and password, Google often shows:

“Try another way”

Possible options include:

Recovery email verification
Recovery phone verification
Backup codes (if you generated them)
Signing in from a device where you’re already logged in
Approving a login prompt on another device (phone/tablet)

Use any method available to regain access.

3. Use a Device Where You’re Already Signed In

If you’re still logged in on:

Your phone
A tablet
Another laptop
A Gmail app

You can usually approve login requests or change your password from there.

Steps:

Go to myaccount.google.com/security
Select Password → change it
Or turn off 2-Step Verification temporarily
Then sign in again on your main device

4. If All Recovery Methods Fail

If Google does not accept any recovery information and you cannot access:

Your recovery email
Your recovery phone
Backup codes
Any signed-in device

Then Google cannot verify the account online.

Final Step — Visit the ICT Department

If none of the methods above work, please visit the ICT Department at The Mico University College for further assistance.

They can help determine next steps and verify your identity in person.

2FA