A Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) application automatically generates an authentication code that changes after a certain period of time.

Tip: To configure authentication via TOTP on multiple devices, during setup, scan the QR code using each device at the same time. If 2FA is already enabled and you want to add another device, you must re-configure 2FA from your security settings.

Warning for users in organizations that require two-factor authentication:

  • If you're a member or outside collaborator to a private repository of an organization that requires two-factor authentication, you must leave the organization before you can disable 2FA on your GitHub Enterprise instance.
  • If you disable 2FA you will automatically lose access to the organization and any private forks you have of the organization's private repositories. To regain access to the organization and your forks, re-enable two-factor authentication and contact an organization owner.
  1. Download one of these apps.
  2. In the upper-right corner of any page, click your profile photo, then click Settings. Settings icon in the user bar
  3. In the user settings sidebar, click Security. Security settings sidebar

  4. Under Two-factor authentication, click Set up two-factor authentication. 2FA dialog box

  5. On the Two-factor authentication page, click Set up using an app.

  6. On the Enable two-factor authentication page, do one of the following:

    • Scan the QR code with your mobile device's app. After scanning, the app will display a six-digit code that you can enter on GitHub Enterprise.
    • If you can't use a barcode, click enter this code to see a code you can copy and manually enter on GitHub Enterprise instead. If you're using Microsoft Authenticator, you'll need to use this method. Click enter this code
  7. The TOTP mobile application will save your GitHub Enterprise account and generate a new authentication code every few seconds. On GitHub Enterprise, on the 2FA page, type the code and click Enable.

  8. To enable two-factor authentication you must save your two-factor recovery codes in a safe place, such as a password manager, by clicking Download, Print, or Copy. Your recovery codes will help get you back into your account if you've lost access. List of recovery codes with option to download, print, or copy the codes

  9. After saving your two-factor recovery codes in a safe place, click Enable two-factor authentication. Enable two factor authentication button

  10. After you've saved your recovery codes and enabled 2FA, we recommend you sign out and back in to your account. In case of problems, such as a forgotten password or typo in your email address, you can use recovery codes to access your account and correct the problem.

Further reading