Two-factor authentication greatly enhances the security of any system behind it. Generally, the concept of two-factor authentication can be simplified by the phrase something you know and something you have. Logically, something you know is your account username and password – the foundation of even the most simplistic security system. Expanding, something you have means a physical item. Clearly the necessity of a physical item immensely complicates any would-be hacker from compromising your account. Two-factor authentication is starting to gain some traction as more and more users are educated on security best practices. Your online banking may already support the security concept!

Google leverages the something you have by sending a SMS message to your cell phone – with the message being the final key to unlocking your account access. It’s free and relatively painless to use day-to-day; a successful two-factor authentication will remain valid on your PC for 30 days, at which point you repeat the SMS request.

Here’s how you set it up.

Log into your Google Account and access the two-step verification settings page.

Select your country from the drop-down and input your mobile number.

The codes can be received either by SMS (recommended) or voicemail – you can change your mind at any time.

With your phone number entered click Send code.

Enter the code once received and click Verify.

That’s all it takes to ward off would be Google Account hackers – pretty painless wasn’t it?