Two-factor authentication for Apple Account

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

What is two-factor authentication?

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security for your Apple Account, designed to make sure that you’re the only one who can access your account — even if someone else knows your password.

Two-factor authentication dramatically improves the security of your Apple Account and the data that you store with Apple. When you sign in to your Apple Account for the first time on a new device or on the web, you need:

• Your Apple Account password

• The six-digit verification code that’s automatically displayed on your trusted devices or sent to your trusted phone number.

Two-factor authentication is the default security method for most accounts. Certain Apple services and features, such as Apple Pay and Sign in with Apple, require two-factor authentication. In addition, Apple recommends that you keep your devices secure by:

• Protecting your device with a passcode (or login password on Mac)

• Enabling Face ID, Touch ID, or Optic ID — if your device supports it

Learn about trusted devices and trusted phone numbers

What happens when you sign in with two-factor authentication

When you sign in to your Apple Account on a new device or the web, you might need to enter a verification code. If you use end-to-end encrypted content stored in iCloud on an Apple device, you might also be asked to enter the passcode of one of your devices.

After you sign in the first time, you won’t be asked for a verification code on that device again unless:

• You sign out of Apple Account completely on that device

• You erase the device

• You need to change your password for security reasons

Get a verification code

Learn how to get a verification code

Turn on two-factor authentication for your Apple Account

Most accounts already use two-factor authentication. If you’re not using two-factor authentication for your Apple Account, you can turn it on using your device or on the web.

On your Apple device

1. Go to Settings on your iPhone or iPad, or System Settings on your Mac.

2. Choose [your name], then Sign-In & Security.

3. Turn on two-factor authentication and follow the onscreen instructions.

On the web

1. Go to account.apple.com and sign in to your Apple Account.

2. You might need to enter a code that’s sent to your email address or answer security questions.

3. Tap Upgrade Account Security and follow the onscreen instructions.