Introduction
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security feature that will reject access to your cPanel account unless a special code found in your smartphone is entered.
Since cPanel contains access to all your files, e-mails, and other data, protecting it with 2FA is a great way to boost the account’s security.
What you’ll need
Before you begin this guide you’ll need the following:
- Access to cPanel
- Time-based one-time password (TOTP) application on your phone eg Duo Mobile
Step 1 — Downloading a TOTP app
We are using the apps Duo Mobile.
Step 2 — Enabling Two-Factor Authentication
Navigate to cPanel-> Two-Factor Authentication section.
After that, press Set Up Two-Factor Authentication
Now, you will be prompted with 2 options which will be briefly described below. Also, in order to complete them you will have to use the TOTP app.
Option 1 is scanning a QR code. If you do not have a QR code reader, you can choose option 2 and enter a generated code found below the QR code.
Once all the information is entered, the application will generate a 6 digit code that needs to be entered in your cPanel to complete the process.
Congratulations! Two-Step Authentication is now enabled on your cPanel account.
Step 3 — Logging Into cPanel
From now on, after entering your cPanel credentials, you will be required to enter a special 6 digit code generated by the TOTP app. If the code is not entered, access to cPanel will be denied, which means that your control panel will be protected even in a situation where someone knows your cPanel password.
