Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security and helps prevent unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised. With 2FA, only you can log in, reducing the risk of breaches and keeping your account safe from cyber threats.

2FA is automatically enforced for all users one day after your Atera subscription begins and cannot be disabled. Upon their first login, users will be prompted to set up 2FA and will need to authenticate each time they log in, as well as when confirming sensitive actions in Atera. If needed, you can reset 2FA at any time, requiring the user to set it up again on their next login.

Atera supports 2FA through popular authenticator apps like Google Authenticator, Authy, Duo, and Microsoft Authenticator — available on Google Play, the App Store, or as a Chrome extension on your computer.

Note: Single Sign-on (SSO) is available for Enterprise users as an alternative and enhanced authentication method.

Note: Single Sign-on (SSO) is available for Superpower users as an alternative and enhanced authentication method.

Set up 2FA

Each user sets up 2FA upon their first login to Atera (or the first login after requesting a 2FA reset).

Note: With Duo or Microsoft Authenticator, select Other when adding an account to the authenticator app.

To set up 2FA:

1. Log in to the Atera app with your email address. Then click Continue.

2. Enter your password. Then click Continue.

3. Scan the unique QR code using your preferred authenticator app on your mobile phone.

4. Enter the one-time code from the authenticator app. Then click Continue.

5. You will be prompted to copy the Recovery code and confirm that you've safely recorded this code. Then click Continue.

Note: Be sure to record and store your recovery code in a safe place. It acts as a backup in case you can't access your authenticator app — allowing you to log in and authenticate securely. Without it, you risk being locked out of your account. For security reasons, Atera support can assist with account recovery, but the process is lengthy.

6. Click Continue to optionally use a passkey (Face ID, fingerprint, or Windows Hello) for faster future logins on this device, or click Not now. For more info, see Set up passkeys (biometric login)

Note: Passkeys and 2FA are separate. Resetting 2FA does not remove passkeys.

Reset 2FA

If you need a 2FA reset and no technicians are available to assist, or you only have 1 license in your subscription and you are logged out of your account, contact our support team for the fastest resolution to reset your 2FA.

Note: Only Admins can reset 2FA.

To reset 2FA:

1. Go to Admin > Users and security > Security and authentication.

The Security and authentication page appears.

2. Select the box next to the desired user(s). Then click Rest 2FA.

The user will be required to set up 2FA the next time they log in to Atera.