Device Links
Discord already comes with impressive security features, but we should also try to do more for account protection as users. Passwords are hackable, and these malicious people can gain access to private conversations. Thus, Discord implemented the two-factor authentication system, also called 2FA.
Activating 2FA is a relatively simple process, and doing so secures your account better than a single password alone. Not only that, but 2FA is also required for some Discord servers or using admin privileges.
If you want a quick guide to turn this essential feature on (and off), you’re in the right place. Keep reading to find out how to enable and disable 2FA on different devices.
How to Turn On or Off 2FA in Discord on the iPhone App
Discord for mobile devices works about the same as the desktop client or browser version. You’ll need to download one of two third-party apps as well. Both are found in the App Store for free.
For those who wish to turn on 2FA on an iPhone, take a look at these steps:
- Launch Discord on your iPhone.
- Find the gear icon near the bottom of the screen and tap on it.
- You’re now in the settings menu; tap on “My Account” to access the proper settings.
- Tap on “Enable Two-Factor Auth.”
- Download either Authy or Google Authenticator on your iPhone.
- Enter the code you received in the authentication app or scan the QR code from Discord.
- Once the codes are accepted, 2FA will become active.
- Tap on “Done” to continue using Discord.
However, there are times when turning off 2FA is necessary. Follow these instructions to get started:
- Launch Discord on your iPhone.
- Look for and tap on the gear icon.
- In the settings menu, tap on “My Account.”
- Find the “Remove 2FA” option beside “View Backup Codes.”
- Type in your Discord Auth code or backup code.
You can always follow the same steps to turn on 2FA again.
How to Turn On or Off 2FA in Discord on the Android App
Compared to the iOS version, Discord on Android devices isn’t too different. The user interface is the same as well. As a result, you can follow similar steps to the instructions on iPhone.
Here’s how you’d enable 2FA on your Android device:
- Go to the Discord app on your Android phone or tablet.
- At the bottom left of the screen, find the gear icon and tap it.
- In the Settings menu, tap on “My Account” to access the right area.
- Find the large button with “Two-Factor Authentication” on it.
- Tap on “Enable Two-Factor Auth.”
- Download Authy or Google Authenticator on your phone.
- You’ll receive a code, which you can enter into the authentication app.
- After the codes are accepted, your Discord account is now protected by 2FA until you disable it.
- Tap on “Done” to continue chatting to friends.
Alternatively, you can also use the authenticator app to scan the QR code Discord provides you. Doing so will link the accounts.
As for turning it off, here’s what you must do:
- Go to your Discord app.
- Tap on the settings icon.
- Go to “My Account” for the option to enable or disable 2FA.
- Tap on “Remove 2FA” under “Two-Factor Authentication Enabled.”
- Enter either your Discord Auth code or backup code into the field.
- Tap on “Remove 2FA.”
- Your account will now have no 2FA protection until you reenable it.
It may be faster to log in without 2FA, but you’re considerably less safe. However, you may find that you need to disable this feature for some situations.
One thing to note is that on Android, Google Authenticator requires you to use ZXing Barcode Scanner if you intend to use barcodes. If you want to save time or simply don’t want to download another app, you can manually enter the code instead of downloading the scanner.
How to Turn On or Off 2FA in Discord From a PC
Even though you’re using Discord on a PC, you still need a mobile device to use Authy or Google Authenticator. Thus, we recommend you keep your mobile phone nearby for easy use. Regardless, the process remains similar to the steps for the other devices listed above.
For PC users, try these instructions to enable 2FA:
- Open Discord on your browser or use the desktop client.
- Click on the cog icon to enter the settings menu.
- Click on “My Account.”
- Select the larger button with “Enable Two-Factor Auth” on it.
- Download your authenticator app of choice, as mentioned above.
- Get the barcode or key from Discord.
- Enter the provided key or use the barcode scanner in the authenticator app.
- Once you enter the required codes, your account will now have 2FA enabled.
As for those who wish to disable it, here’s how:
- Launch Discord for PC.
- Go to the Settings menu.
- Click on “My Account.”
- Click on “Remove 2FA.”
- Enter the required Discord Auth code or backup code.
- Once that’s done, your account is no longer 2FA-protected.
Why Enable Two-Factor Authentication?
With 2FA, hackers will have a much more difficult time trying to get into your account. Unlike a single password, the 2FA service requires codes that are only accessible by you. The codes also work once per login.
These codes reach you via SMS or specific apps like Authy or Google Authenticator. While 2FA isn’t perfect, the method is simple and effective.
Sometimes, you also have to disable 2FA. Some users do so because they lose access to their phones and can’t log into their accounts.
With the help of backup codes, you can disable 2FA and log into your account again. After getting a new phone, you can follow the steps above and enable 2FA again.
However, keep in mind that you’ll have to create a new account if you don’t have your backup codes. The reason is that Discord doesn’t have access to your codes, and they also can’t give you new ones. Thus, it’s a good idea to keep your codes somewhere accessible.
Additional FAQs
Can I Disable 2FA Without Logging In?
No, you can’t do that. If you wish to disable 2FA, you have to use a backup code after logging into your Discord account. There’s no other way to disable the feature in the app.
Can You Enable 2FA With PC?
Yes, even though you still need a phone and authenticator app, you can still enable 2FA via PC.
Extra Security Means Extra Assurance
Having 2FA to protect Discord accounts is a brilliant way to ensure your privacy isn’t breached. While the process requires a third-party app, you only need a few minutes of setup. After that, you don’t have to worry about 2FA anymore.
Do you think 2FA is an excellent idea? What do you think about 2FA-required servers? Let us know in the comments section below.