Connecting your account to Salesforce Authenticator is a straightforward process designed to enhance the security of your Salesforce login through multi-factor authentication (MFA). This method adds an extra layer of protection, requiring you to verify your identity using the authenticator app on your mobile device in addition to your username and password.
What is Salesforce Authenticator?
Salesforce Authenticator is a free mobile app that provides a convenient and secure way to verify your identity when logging into your Salesforce account. Instead of entering a code, you often simply tap "Approve" on your phone to grant access, making your login process both faster and more secure. It supports both time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) and push notifications for approval.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting Your Account
Follow these steps to link your Salesforce account with the Salesforce Authenticator app:
1. Download the Salesforce Authenticator App
First, ensure you have the Salesforce Authenticator app installed on your mobile device.
- For iOS: Download from the Apple App Store.
- For Android: Download from the Google Play Store.
2. Access Your Salesforce Settings
Log in to your Salesforce account from a desktop browser.
- On the top right of your Salesforce interface, click on your Avatar Icon.
- From the dropdown menu, click on Settings.
3. Navigate to Advanced User Details
Within your settings, you'll need to find the security registration section.
- In the left-hand navigation pane, look for My Personal Information and expand it if necessary.
- Under "My Personal Information," click on Advanced User Details.
4. Initiate the Connection
Locate the option to connect the authenticator app.
- Scroll down to find the App Registration: Salesforce Authenticator section.
- Click the Connect button next to it.
5. Link Your Mobile Device
Salesforce will now display instructions to connect your mobile app.
- Open the Salesforce Authenticator app on your mobile device.
- In the app, tap Add an Account or a similar option to begin the registration process.
- Salesforce will present a two-word phrase on your desktop screen. Enter this exact phrase into your Salesforce Authenticator app on your mobile device.
- Tap Connect or Save in the app.
6. Finalize the Connection
Once the phrase is successfully entered and matched, your desktop will confirm the connection.
- You will see a confirmation message on your Salesforce desktop browser indicating that your account has been successfully connected to Salesforce Authenticator.
Why Use Salesforce Authenticator? Benefits at a Glance
Implementing Salesforce Authenticator for MFA significantly boosts your account security and streamlines your login experience.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Security | Protects your account from unauthorized access even if your password is compromised. |
| Convenient Login | Approve logins with a simple tap on your phone, eliminating the need to type codes. |
| Location-Based Approvals | Optionally approve logins only when you're in a trusted location (available for some users). |
| Automated Approvals | For trusted IP addresses or locations, you can enable auto-approval after initial manual approval. |
| Free of Charge | The app is free to download and use. |
| Required for MFA Mandate | Helps comply with Salesforce's MFA mandate for all users accessing Salesforce products. |
Managing Your Connected Authenticator
After connecting, you can manage your authenticator from the same "Advanced User Details" section in your Salesforce settings. Here, you can disconnect the app if you get a new phone or need to reset it.
Important Tip: Always keep your authenticator app secure. If you lose your phone, report it immediately to your Salesforce administrator so they can revoke access and help you set up a new authenticator.
