Introduction
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security mechanism that denies access to your cPanel account unless you enter a unique code available on your smartphone.
Since cPanel provides access to all your files, emails, and other information, implementing 2FA is an excellent method to enhance the security of your account.
What you’ll need
Before you start this guide, you will require the following:
- Access to cPanel
- A Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) application on your phone, such as Duo Mobile
Step 1 — Downloading a TOTP app
We will be using the Duo Mobile app.
Step 2 — Enabling Two-Factor Authentication
Go to cPanel and select the Two-Factor Authentication section.
Then, click on Set Up Two-Factor Authentication
At this point, you will see 2 options that will be briefly outlined below. To complete them, you will need to use the TOTP app.
Option 1 involves scanning a QR code. If you don’t have a QR code reader, you can select option 2 and manually enter the generated code located below the QR code.
Once you have entered all the required information, the application will generate a 6-digit code which you must input into cPanel to finalize the process.
Congratulations! Two-Step Authentication has been successfully activated on your cPanel account.
Step 3 — Logging Into cPanel
Moving forward, after entering your cPanel credentials, you will need to provide a special 6-digit code generated by the TOTP app. If you fail to enter the code, access to cPanel will be refused, ensuring that your control panel remains secure even if someone knows your cPanel password.
