A Practical Software Directory for Solo Builders
Adding protection to your business sign-ins
Authentication tools help confirm your identity when you sign in to email, payment services, website accounts and other business tools.
Tools in this category will help you to...
Generate verification codes, approve supported sign-ins or use a physical security key. Check which methods your accounts support and how you would recover access after losing or replacing a device. One compatible authenticator app can often cover several accounts; compare the options around your devices, backup preferences and everyday use.
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2FAS Auth is a free, open-source authenticator for adding verification codes to supported online accounts. Set it up using the account's security settings, then use the app to generate codes when signing in. It works on Android and iOS, generates codes offline and does not require a 2FAS account. Backup options include export files and supported cloud services, helping you prepare for a replacement phone. An optional browser extension connects with the mobile app so you can approve sending a code to your browser. This listing covers 2FAS Auth, which is separate from the company's password manager.
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Ente Auth is a free, open-source authenticator with apps for mobile devices and desktop computers, alongside web access. Generate verification codes for supported accounts and synchronise them across devices using end-to-end encryption. Encrypted cloud backups provide a recovery option, while import and export tools help you move existing authentication entries. Tags, notes and favourites make a larger collection of accounts easier to organise. It is useful to consider if you work across different operating systems and want access beyond a single phone. Ente Auth is a separate product from Ente's photo storage service and does not require a paid photo subscription.
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Google Authenticator is a free mobile app that generates verification codes for Google and other services supporting compatible authenticator apps. Add an account through its security settings, usually by scanning a QR code, then enter the changing code when requested during sign-in. Codes can be generated without an internet connection or mobile signal. Optional Google Account synchronisation makes your saved codes available across supported devices, while using the app without an account keeps them on the device. Transfer tools help when changing phones. Review your backup and recovery arrangements before replacing or resetting the device you use for authentication.
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Microsoft Authenticator is a free Android and iOS app for verifying sign-ins to personal, work and other supported accounts. It can generate verification codes for compatible services, while supported Microsoft accounts also offer phone approvals or passwordless sign-in. Add accounts through their security settings, then follow the prompts for the authentication method available. It can be a practical choice when Microsoft services already form part of your working setup, while also supporting codes for non-Microsoft accounts. Features for work accounts depend on the organisation's settings. Check the recovery instructions for each account type before changing phones, as some accounts require registration again.
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Yubico's Security Key Series provides a physical way to verify sign-ins to services supporting FIDO2 or FIDO U2F security keys. Register the key with a compatible account, then connect it by USB or use NFC with a supported device when signing in. Depending on the service, it can work as an additional factor or hold a passkey for passwordless access. These keys are purchased hardware, with connector options to match different devices and no battery required. Check account and device compatibility before buying, and arrange a spare key or another supported recovery method. This range does not generate the usual six-digit authenticator codes.
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