Download Authy 1.9.0 (Mac) – Download Free

More and more users are starting to recognize the value of two-factor authentication, and the recommended method of securing important accounts is by using 2FA apps that provide one-time codes from one or more devices.

Authy is designed as an alternative to mainstream 2FA apps like Google Authenticator. It offers support for multiple platforms (mobile and desktop), synchronization across all your devices, and cloud backups for account recovery.

2FA app that provides tokens to multiple devices

One potential advantage offered by Authy is the fact that it synchronizes your data between all the devices it’s installed on, allowing you to use all of them as authenticators. This is not possible when using Google and Microsoft Authenticator, the two most popular alternatives.

Of course, the downside is that there will be multiple avenues for anyone looking to gain access to OTP codes for your accounts. However, biometric security and PIN codes on mobile, along with master passwords on macOS, should help keep your data safe.

One-time passcodes delivered straight to your Mac

Whatever their strengths and weaknesses, most 2FA apps are not available for desktop platforms. This is understandable, given that these aren’t exactly mobile and would require you to use at least one other authentication device.

If that’s what you need, though, Authy has you covered. It’s available on macOS, Windows, and Linux, alongside iOS and Android. You can install it on all these devices and sync data between all of them. It’s free on all platforms, as the company is financed by businesses that use the Authy API.

Works with any service that supports Google Authenticator

Because it uses the same standards, you will have no problems switching from any popular authentication app. You can add new accounts either via QR codes or by entering tokens manually.

All in all, Authy is a nice alternative for users who find that Google or Microsoft’s authenticators are not enough. It’s particularly helpful if you need to use multiple devices to receive tokens, and it’s the only one that offers a dedicated Mac app.