Next7 IT Client Knowledge Base

Dropbox - 2 Factor Authentication Setup

Two factor authentication helps to protect a Dropbox account by adding an additional step when logging in from a new device.  The first step is the password on the account.  The second step is a login code on a physical device, usually a cell phone.

Even if an attacker gains access to the account’s password, they would also need your phone to successfully login.

These instructions demonstrate how to setup two factor authentication to use text messages or an authenticator app on a cell phone as the second factor of authentication.
  1. 1

    Login to your account via www.Dropbox.com

    ​Login to Dropbox​​​
  2. 2

    Click the icon in the top right corner of the screen. Click Settings.

  3. 3

    Click Security and switch Two-step Verification to On

  4. 4

    Click Get Started

  5. 5

    Re-enter your password and click Next

  6. 6

    Select Use Text Messages. Click Next.

       
  7. 7

    Enter your cell phone number

  8. 8

    Enter the 6-Digit Code that you receive via Text Message. Click Next.

  9. 9

    Enter a back-up phone number if you have one.

  10. 10

    You will be given 10 one-time backup codes to access your account

    1. Please document the backup codes in a secure location so that you can still login if you do not have access to your phone.
  11. 11

    Click Next.

  12. 12

    Your account is now configured with 2 Factor Authentication, authenticated via Text messages

  13. 13

    If you would like to use an authenticator app like Duo or Authy, instead of text messages, follow the instructions below (recommended):

    1. From Account Settings, Click Security then scroll down to Preferred Method. Click Edit next to your phone number.
    2. Re-enter your password.
    3. Select Use a Mobile App. Click Next.
    4. You will be prompted with a Barcode.  Utilize an Authenticator App on your cell phone such as Authy or Duo.
    5. Open the Authenticator app on your phone and tap the option to add an account.  Your camera should become active so that you can scan the Barcode.
       (Screenshots via Duo app).
    6. Point the camera on your phone at the QR code on the computer screen.
    7. The account will be added immediately.
      1. Note: If the barcode isn’t detected, try turning up the brightness on your computer screen.
    8. Click Next then enter the 6-Digit Code.
    9. Enter a backup Phone Number. Click Next.
    10. The authenticator app will now be your preferred and default method of authentication for Dropbox.