# How to set up Two-Factor Authentication in cPanel

> Add a second layer of security to your cPanel login with Two-Factor Authentication, using a free authenticator app on your phone.

Source: https://www.kualo.com/knowledgebase/cpanel-security/how-to-set-up-two-factor-authentication-in-cpanel
Updated: 2026-06-11

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Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds a second layer of security to your cPanel login. As well as your password, you enter a short code from an app on your phone that changes every 30 seconds - so even if someone learns your password, they cannot get in without your phone.

## Before you start

Install an authenticator app on your phone if you don't already have one. Any of these work well:

- Google Authenticator
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Authy

## Turn on Two-Factor Authentication

1. Log in to cPanel and, in the **Security** section, click **Two-Factor Authentication**.

   ![The Two-Factor Authentication screen in cPanel](https://kb-cdn.kualo.com/42/d3/42d3dcda93cf309f662578a0ccbb9665cf63adf7.png)

2. Click **Set Up Two-Factor Authentication**. cPanel shows a **QR code** and an account (secret) key.

   ![Scanning the QR code to set up Two-Factor Authentication in cPanel](https://kb-cdn.kualo.com/93/8b/938bc4c972de42e9205016cafa8d599385efc253.png)

3. Open your authenticator app and either scan the QR code or enter the account key by hand. The app adds an entry for your cPanel account and starts generating six-digit codes.
4. Back in cPanel, type the current six-digit code from your app into the **Security Code** field and click **Configure Two-Factor Authentication**.

That's it - the next time you log in to cPanel, you will be asked for a code from your app after your password.

:::warning
Keep your authenticator app, and the device it is on, safe. If you lose access to it you will not be able to log in - contact our support team, who can help you regain access to your account.
:::


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_Source: Kualo Knowledgebase — https://www.kualo.com/knowledgebase/cpanel-security/how-to-set-up-two-factor-authentication-in-cpanel · © Kualo Ltd._