The number of businesses affected by data breaches has grown over the years, demonstrating that passwords alone do not provide adequate security for your applications and online accounts.
As both small and large businesses fall victim to these data breaches and security breaches, software engineers develop authentication security measures to ensure zero trust security for all businesses. Authy and Google Authenticator are two popular two-factor authentication tools that can accomplish this.
Authy vs. Google Authenticator: Comparison Chart
Authy by Twilio is a mobile two-factor authentication app that enhances online security by sending one-time passwords to your mobile or desktop device. It syncs directly with websites and services to grant users access, and it’s completely free.
SEE: Checklist: Network and system security (TechRepublic Premium)
Another popular authenticator application is Google Authenticator. Google Authenticator is a leading authentication option available on iOS and Android and has been widely adopted by many websites and apps.
Like other two-factor authentication tools, Google Authenticator can generate time-based codes to access online accounts.
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Authy and Google Authenticator Pricing
Authy and Google Authenticator are both free authentication apps available for download on popular app stores and software marketplaces.
Feature comparison: Authy vs. Google Authenticator
Supported platforms
While Authy provided desktop support for its authenticator in the past, its Linux, macOS, and Windows apps were recently shut down on March 19, 2024. Currently, Authy is only available as a mobile app via Android and iOS.
Like Authy, Google Authenticator does not have a web or desktop version and is only available through iOS and Android.
Backup and sync
Authy allows you to back up your data and sync your two-factor authentication account tokens across numerous devices. The application’s backup functionality is one of its most important features, supporting encryption and recovery of backup accounts from the server. As long as you enable multi-device functionality in the Authy Authenticator app, you don’t have to worry about retrieving your Authy tokens if you lose your device.
Google Authenticator also allows users to transfer their accounts to a new device if the old device is available. Google Authenticator also recently added the ability to back up one-time codes to a user’s Google account.
security capabilities
It is crucial to protect your authenticator application with a PIN or password to avoid bad actors from easily accessing the application. To do this, Authy uses PIN and biometric authentication systems to protect data from unauthorized use.
This ensures that no one without your Authy password or PIN can access the application-generated token. Authy also encrypts all backups, ensuring your data is safe from hackers. Additionally, if a user loses their device, cloud-based backup makes it easy for them to securely access their credentials on another device.
On the other hand, while Google Authenticator provides high-quality security, it misses out on this important security feature. Google Authenticator could put your data at risk if the device is lost or stolen because it lacks a password or biometric login alternative to prevent unauthorized users from gaining access.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Authy
Advantages of Authy
- PIN protected applications.
- All data is encrypted.
- Includes fingerprint login.
Disadvantages of Authy
- Desktop support was recently shut down.
Google Authenticator Pros and Cons
Advantages of Google Authenticator
- Widely adopted in popular services.
- Works well with Google suite of apps and devices.
- Intuitive and easy to use.
Disadvantages of Google Authenticator
- Lack of biometric login and locking.
Should your organization use Authy or Google Authenticator?
Whether you run a small business or a large organization, there are situations where you need to give employees access to basic systems and information. But granting access to sensitive information without additional security measures can be risky. Therefore, using 2FA can help enterprises securely and reliably access company resources remotely.
While Authy and Google Authenticator are both quality authenticator apps, there are certain factors you should consider before adopting one or the other.
Google Authenticator is a great choice for anyone looking for a simple and easy-to-use tool. Meanwhile, users who want a higher level of protection during the two-factor authentication process can do so as well. However, keep in mind that anyone who can hack your phone can access your Google Authenticator app.
Authy, on the other hand, improves the security of authentication codes by allowing users to protect applications with PIN codes. Additionally, Authy is ideal for customers who change phones frequently or want programs to sync across numerous devices. Because all data is encrypted, your code cannot be stolen as it moves between devices and the cloud.
review method
Both Authy and Google Authenticator were evaluated based on their authentication capabilities. We specifically looked at how both handle in-app security, OTP backup and sync, multi-device support, and more.
This article was originally written by Franklin Okeke and updated by Luis Millares to reflect functionality changes since this article was originally published.
#Authy #Google #Authenticator #TwoFactor #Authenticator #Comparison
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