To enhance your Web Hosting account and website security with 2FA (2 Factor Authentication), you can use Google Authenticator or other OTP (One-Time Password) authenticator apps that support QR code scanning.
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Steps to Activate 2 Factor Authentication
Go to the Domains.co.za login page.
Expand the Account Information dropdown on the left menu and click Security Settings.
Click the button to set up your Two-Factor Authentication.
Click Get Started to generate your 2FA QR code.
Once the QR code is scanned, click Confirm.
Enter the current 2FA code displayed in the Google Authenticator app.
Click Verify.
After verification, 2FA will be activated on your account.
From now on, each time you access your account, you will need to enter your username, password, and the 2FA code displayed in the Google Authenticator app at the time of login.
How to Install Google Authenticator
The installation process for the Google Authenticator app varies depending on your device:
- Android/Windows Mobile Users: Download the app from the Google Play Store.
- Apple Users: Download the app from the Apple App Store.
Additional Information
What is 2 Factor Authentication (2FA)?
Two Factor Authentication (2FA) is an additional layer of security used to ensure that people trying to access an online account are who they say they are. First, a user enters their username and password. Then, instead of immediately gaining access, they must provide another piece of information. This second factor could come from one of the following categories:
- Something you know: This could be an additional password or a PIN.
- Something you have: This usually refers to a physical device, such as a smartphone or a hardware token.
- Something you are: This involves biometrics, like a fingerprint or retinal scan.
Benefits of 2FA
- Enhanced Security: Even if someone knows your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the second factor, which helps protect against phishing, social engineering, and brute-force attacks.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many industries have regulatory requirements that mandate using 2FA to protect sensitive data.
- Peace of Mind: Adds a layer of security, letting you know your account is secure even if your password is compromised.
Types of Two Factor Authentication Methods
SMS-Based 2FA, where a code is sent to your mobile phone via SMS.
- Pros: Easy to use and widely available.
- Cons: Can be intercepted through SIM swapping or SMS interception.
Authenticator Apps like Google Authenticator, Authy, and Microsoft Authenticator generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTP).
- Pros: More secure than SMS, works offline.
- Cons: Requires initial setup and a smartphone.
Hardware tokens on physical devices that generate codes, like YubiKey.
- Pros: Very secure and durable.
- Cons: Can be lost or damaged.
Biometric authentication uses fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans.
- Pros: Very secure, as it uses unique physical traits.
- Cons: Requires compatible hardware.
Best Practices for 2FA
- Keep Backup Codes: When setting up 2FA, save the backup codes provided by the service. These can be used to access your account if you lose access to your 2FA device.
- Use a Password Manager: A password manager can help you generate and store strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
- Regularly Update Your Recovery Information: Ensure that your recovery email and phone number are up-to-date.
- Be Careful with Emails: Be aware of phishing emails that may try to trick you into revealing your 2FA codes and other login credentials.
- Use 2FA Everywhere: Enable 2FA on all your accounts that support it, not just your Domains.co.za account.
Implementing 2FA significantly increases your account security. With the additional layer of protection, you can rest assured that your data is more secure. If you have any questions or need assistance setting up 2FA, please contact the Domains.co.za Support Team.