How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication in Slack

You can add an extra layer of security to your Slack account by setting up two-factor authentication. Here's how to enable 2FA in Slack.

Slack is a popular work collaboration tool used by millions. With such a large user base, your Slack account can become an easy target. Protecting your account requires more than just a password. You need a strong password combination plus two-factor authentication, for instance.

When two-factor authentication is enabled, Slack will require a code to approve logins. Without this code, access will be denied. It may seem like a hassle if you log in multiple times throughout the day, but it can help prevent unauthorized access to your account. In this article, you'll learn how to set up two-factor authentication in Slack.

What You Need to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication in Slack

To set up two-factor authentication in Slack, you'll need to log in to your Slack account via the desktop client or your web browser. You'll also need an active phone number as well as an email address to receive codes, or an authenticator app to generate codes.

Note that Slack does not currently support two-factor authentication set-up via the mobile app.

Related: What Is Two-Factor Authentication? Here's Why You Should Be Using It

How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication in Slack

Here's how to set up two-factor authentication for your Slack account.

1. First, open Slack in your browser or launch the desktop app.

2. Once you open the app, click on your profile picture.

   

3. From the menu options, click View profile. Now, click More or the three dots button.

   
4. From the menu options, click Account settings. A new tab will open in your browser.

5. Go to Two-Factor Authentication under Account and click on expand. Now, click on the Set Up Two-Factor Authentication button.

   

6. Note that you'll be automatically signed out of all sessions when you activate two-factor authentication in Slack. To continue, you'll be required to provide your Slack password. Enter your password in the space provided and click the Confirm Password button.

   

7. Once confirmed, Slack will ask you how you'll like to receive your authentication codes. You can choose between SMS and an authenticator app. For this example, we select Use an app. You can use authenticator apps such as Google Authenticator, Duo Mobile, Twilio Authy, or Windows Phone Authenticator.

   
8. For this example, we use the Twilio Authy app. Open the app on your mobile phone and tap the three dots menu button in the top-right corner. Then, select Add account.
9. Next, tap the Scan QR Code button and point your device's camera at the QR code on Slack.

10. Tap SAVE on the Authy app. The app will generate random 6-digit codes. Each code is good for 30 seconds. Quickly enter the verification code and click Verify Code and Activate.

    

11. Slack recommends that Workspace Owners register a backup phone number. You can skip this step if you're not the Workspace Owner. Otherwise, select your country code from the dropdown and enter your mobile phone number. Click Add phone number when done.

    
12. Note that SMS text delivery is only available for certain countries. If your country is not listed, you can open a request or simply click on Skip. This will complete your two-factor authentication setup in Slack.

13. On the next page, you'll see up to ten authentication backup codes displayed. If you lose access to your authentication device for any reason, you can use any of the backup codes. Each code may only be used once.

    
14. You can print or copy and keep these codes somewhere safe. Click on Print Codes or Copy Codes as you wish. You should now see your Two-Factor Authentication set to Active with a padlock icon.

Related: What Is a YubiKey and Does It Make 2FA Easier?

How to Deactivate Two-Factor Authentication in Slack

To deactivate two-factor authentication in Slack, navigate to your two-factor authentication settings page (Open Slack > click View profile > click More > click Account settings > under Two-Factor Authentication option, click expand). Now, click Deactivate two-factor authentication.

This will deactivate two-factor authentication for your Slack account. You can enable or disable two-factor authentication in Slack whenever you wish.

Keep Your Online Security Up to Date

Your online security should not be taken lightly, not just for your Slack account. As new threats emerge, you must continue to implement account security best practices to safeguard your online accounts.

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