Two-factor authentication, or 2FA, is a way of logging into websites that requires more than just a password. Using a password to log into a website is susceptible to security threats, because it represents a single piece of information a malicious person needs to acquire. The added security that 2FA provides is requiring additional information to sign in.
In GitHub Enterprise's case, this additional information is an authentication code delivered to your cell phone, generated by an application on your smartphone. After 2FA is enabled, GitHub generates an authentication code that is sent to your phone any time someone attempts to sign into your GitHub account. The only way someone can sign into your account is if they know both your password and have access to the authentication code on your phone.
We strongly urge you to turn on 2FA for the safety of your account, not only on GitHub Enterprise, but on other websites that support it. You can use 2FA to access GitHub Enterprise via:
- The GitHub Enterprise website
- The GitHub API
- GitHub for Windows
- GitHub for Mac
Configuring authentication via a TOTP mobile app
We recommend authenticating with a Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) application, which automatically generates an authentication code that changes after a certain period of time. TOTP applications are more reliable than SMS, especially for locations outside the US. For more information, see Configuring two-factor authentication via a TOTP mobile app.
Saving your recovery codes
After successfully setting up 2FA, you'll be provided a set of randomly generated recovery codes that you should view and save. We strongly recommend saving your recovery codes immediately. If you don't, though, you can download them at any point after enabling two-factor authentication. For more information, see Downloading your two-factor authentication recovery codes.
