What you should know
- Google is simplifying the process of setting up two-factor authentication (2FA) for both Workspace and personal accounts to enhance security.
- The update allows users to directly add authenticator apps or physical security keys as their second factor without needing to register a phone number first.
- Users now have more flexibility with security keys, being able to register them as either FIDO1 or FIDO2 credentials.
- Workspace Admins are informed that disabling 2FA for a user does not automatically delete their second-factor methods, ensuring streamlined off-boarding procedures.
Full Story
Oh, boy, Google’s at it again! They’re making life a tad easier for us, the digital dwellers. This time, it’s all about beefing up security with two-factor authentication (2FA) for both Workspace and personal accounts. A welcome change, wouldn’t you say?
So, what’s the scoop? Announced in a fresh post on the Google Workspace blog, the gist is simple. They’re streamlining the 2FA setup process. Now, that’s something to chat about over coffee.
Previously, it was a bit of a hassle. You know, registering a phone number and all that jazz as your second step for authentication. But, hey, not anymore! Now, you can jump straight to adding those nifty authenticator apps (like Google Authenticator) or even physical security keys. No phone verification hoop to jump through first. How cool is that?
And, get this, there’s more flexibility with security keys now. Users get to choose between FIDO1 or FIDO2 credentials. It’s like Google’s saying, “Go ahead, pick the flavor of your security key.” Modern security capabilities at your fingertips.
But, here’s the kicker. Even with these shiny new changes, you’ll still need your password and that second factor when logging in. Especially for Workspace accounts, where the admin has the final say on the “Allow users to skip passwords…” policy. Sometimes, what you want and what’s set up don’t exactly match.
For the Workspace Admins out there, a heads-up. If a user decides to turn off 2FA, don’t worry. Their security keys and backup codes won’t just vanish into thin air. Makes the off-boarding process smoother, right? Just remember, disabling 2FA for a user means those second-factor methods are gone. Poof! For security, of course.
Now, for the drumroll… These updates started rolling out today. Yep, for both Workspace users and personal Google accounts. The whole shebang is expected to wrap up in the next 1 to 3 days. If you’re sitting there thinking, “Hmm, maybe I should add some extra security to my account,” well, Google’s Help Center has your back. Step-by-step guides await.
So, there you have it. Google’s making strides in the world of online security, one 2FA setup at a time. A bit of a change, a dash of flexibility, and voilà – a smoother, more secure digital life for us all.
